Subject: Parameters of discussion on Ferghana-Valley list
From: Ferghana-Valley List Manager (fvdp@elcat1.osh.su)
Date: Sat Apr 17 1999 - 03:04:05 EDT
To the Members of the FERGHANA-VALLEY List:
As we expected when we established the Ferghana-Valley list, we have felt
the necessity to impose some parameters for discussion on the list. We are
appending below a message that we sent recently to one list member -- in the
interest of having complete openness regarding our "editorial" policy. The
message below explains why we felt it necessary to refrain from posting a
message submitted to the list. As the administration of this list, we
retain the right and responsibility to impose some parameters, much as we
are uncomfortable in assuming a role that might be labeled censorship. Our
role is to ensure that this list serves its stated goals, and it was clear
from the beginning that this would entail imposing some parameters on
discussion.
As indicated below, the guideline is as follows: Discussion which amounts to
a political critique the policies of one or another government in the region
will not be carried by the Ferghana-Valley list. In addition to the
explanation of this given below, we would note that this guideline is not
something that can be altered and we do not wish to initiate a debate on the
Ferghana-Valley list regarding the correctness or wisdom of this policy.
However, we would welcome your views (sent to the list administration -- not
the list) on how we might approach this difficult issue.
We appreciate your understanding.
Ferghana-Valley List Administration
Dear List Member,
It is our uncomfortable role to have to set parameters for discussion on the
Ferghana-Valley list. While we consider the issues you raise to be very
valid and worthy of discussion, because Ferghana-Valley is a *moderated*
list with the specific goals of promoting *prosperity and harmony* in the
region, we feel that it is necessary to avoid highly political issues which
can cause divisive discussion which would defeat the purpose of the
Ferghana-Valley list. The restriction on discussion amounts to a commitment
to keep the list focused on a) the conditions which effect *prosperity and
harmony*, and b) the things that must be done or are already being done in
order bring about these urgently needed things.
We therefore feel compelled to adhere to the following principle: Discussion
which amounts to a political critique the policies of one or another
government in the region will not be carried by the Ferghana-Valley list.
While we all have our views on such issues, this list cannot the place where
they will be aired and at the same time continue to serve its specific goals
of promoting *prosperity and harmony*. There are other lists where such
things are commonly discussed and we would be glad to refer you to them if
we may.
We apoligize that these constraints effect your contribution, and we do not
wish to deny in any way the importance of your perspective. We hope you
will understand our position.
Sincerely,
Ferghana-Valley List Administration
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