ONT is the second national TV channel in Belarus and a state-owned enterprise. The station was established in 2002 and uses the frequencies of the Russian state-run Channel One, re-broadcasting the majority of its programs.
Media assets
Television: ONT
State Media Matrix Typology: State-Controlled (SC)
Ownership and governance
ONT was established in 2002 through a presidential decree as a majority state-owned broadcast company. The Ministry of Information appoints the station’s top management. The Ministry of Information owns 51% of the company, while Belarusbank, a state-owned banking group, controls a 29% stake. Additionally, the company reports to the President’s Office.
In June 2024, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko approved the appointment of Igor Lutsky as Chairman of the Board at ONT. Lutsky currently serves as Chairman of the Education, Science, Culture, and Social Development Commission of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus. He has a long history with the Information Ministry, including a tenure as Information Minister.
Source of funding and budget
ONT is primarily financed by the government, which provides a state allocation. Additionally, the station generates revenue through advertising sales. However, the commercial revenues account for only a minor portion of the station’s overall budget, according to insights from journalists and industry experts specializing in Belarus interviewed for this report in May 2024.
Editorial independence
ONT’s editorial line is subject to strict government control, with the station’s top management being appointed by the Ministry of Information.
To date, no domestic statute or independent assessment or oversight mechanism that would validate the editorial independence of ONT has been identified.
September 2024