ABC rejects doco on “balance” test

IN what might be considered an unusual development, the ABC has rejected a documentary focusing on pro-Palestinian human rights activists on the grounds that it could not find a documentary on Israel to broadcast for balance.

The distributor of the documentary, which airs Palestinian grievances against Israel is now trying to source a program more supportive of Israel, in order to have its film screened.

Dr Andrew Pike, managing director of distributor Ronin Films, said he was disappointed when the national broadcaster withdrew an offer for the screening rights to Hope In A Slingshot by independent producer Inka Stafrace, citing problems of “balance” in its programming.

Stafrace has her own definition of balanced reporting from the Middle East. A statement from Ronin Films quotes her saying: “If any article or news grab of violence in the region fails to mention the occupation, it is fundamentally unbalanced.”

The ABC reportedly claimed it changed its mind after it found it had no film with a more pro-Israel line to screen, in keeping with its stated policy of balanced coverage.

“I felt Hope In A Slingshot, while it expresses strong opinions, does actually contain elements of balance in it. A good number of Israeli spokespeople speak in the film,” Dr Pike said.

“We didn’t accept the ABC couldn’t find a balancing program. We felt there were possibly plenty out there and we’re currently trying to find titles to recommend to the ABC.”

Dr Pike accused the ABC of being “afraid of some form of political repercussion”.

Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council executive director Dr Colin Rubenstein described the documentary as “extremely biased and selective in its discussion of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict”.

“As such, I am pleased that on this occasion, the ABC has complied with their charter and upheld their commitment to balance over time.”

PETER KOHN