Another factor influencing the nature of the editorial coverage is the rather deeply institutionalised self censorship in all three republics. In Azerbaijan, few independent outlets have the courage and determination to argue with the censors or run the risk of reprisals. In Georgia and Armenia, the self censorship within the state owned media is due to the remaining control of the authorities. Nevertheless, also independent outlets exercise a certain degree of self censorship, due to the government monopoly over facilities and the fear of running foul of other influential forces in society. It is understandable that in the climate described above, independent analysis, investigative journalism, balanced reporting, etc. may be too much to ask. Nevertheless, the monitoring teams met in each of the republics with professional journalists and editors, determined to provide sound coverage of the events influencing the course of their country. With remarkable ingenuity and tenacity, they managed to circumvent some of the problems they face in informing their audience. Such initiatives are not only laudable and promising, they also deserve support. The elections in Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan provided an indication of the democratic calibre of the three Trans-Caucasian republics and of the attitude of the different governments towards the media. Considering the media proved to be an integral part of the economic and political developments in a country, improvement of their position depends on a delicate transitional process. Ergo, merely economic growth and a stimulating rather than a hindering role of the authorities can guarantee a lasting improvement of the independent working conditions for the media. The intricate yet vital (geo)political, economical, ethnical and social situation in the region without any doubt deserves this. About the Authors Yasha Lange is project manager of the European Institute for the Media, Dusseldorf, and has edited reports on the media in the former Soviet Union for the EU's Tacis Democracy Programme. Elizabeth Fuller is a supervisory research analyst at the Open Media Research Institute, Prague, and is specialised in the Caucasus. OSCE ODIHR Bulletin Vol. 4 No. 3 11