A New Era in Ratings Discussed at BAU

The opening speech of the panel organized by the Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Communication, which examined the "RTÜK Draft Regulation on New Audience Measurement," was given by RTÜK Chair Prof. Dr. Davut Dursun. Making statements about the new era in the much-debated issue of "ratings," Davut Dursun said: "We do not want to interfere in the functioning of the sector. However, our goodwill should not be abused." Saying, "Although RTÜK is perceived as an institution that should stay out of ratings measurement, we also have duties and responsibilities when broadcasters and their editorial independence are involved," Davut Dursun stated that they had received this mandate from Parliament and that it was not open to debate. Noting that RTÜK does not yet have sufficient experience in this area, Davut Dursun also emphasized that they expect criticism and contributions from all players in the sector.

"INSTANT RATINGS ANNOUNCEMENTS HARM BROADCASTING"

Also addressing the minute-by-minute publication of ratings, another controversial issue at the panel held at Bahçeşehir University, RTÜK Chair Davut Dursun said: "Sharing instant ratings harms broadcast content. Especially in debate programs, outrageous things are done when ratings drop. To put an end to this, we are working on having ratings figures announced at least one hour later."

"RTÜK SHOULD NOT ACT LIKE A GENDARME"

Stating that they would prefer to take on responsibility as a regulator rather than play an active role in ratings measurement, RTÜK Chair Davut Dursun said: "Our aim is to find common ground with the sector. We do not want RTÜK to stand over broadcasters and advertisers like a gendarme." Dursun continued: "There is a request that ratings not be measured in settlements with a population of under 20,000. However, this corresponds to 30 percent of Türkiye. It would be wrong to measure 70 percent and say that all of Türkiye is watching these programs. Our wish is that measurement be carried out at least in all settlements with a population of over 5,000."