Sir, I worked for the BBC Russian Service from 1989 to 2001, and witnessed the beginning of its decline (letters, Nov 10 & 14). When I joined the service in 1989, it had a vibrant, if somewhat eccentric, atmosphere of creativity. Intellectual debate was an integral part of programme making, originality was encouraged and each member of the service took pride in his work.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, John Tusa, then the director of the World Service, lifted the ban on the recruitment of journalists who had been employed by the media in their countries. For the Russian Service it meant recruitment of the people who, before the collapse of the Soviet regime, had worked for the Soviet propaganda machine. They had excellent radio skills, good English but no idea about balanced reporting and treating people with trust and respect. Many of them have gradually taken editorial positions in the Russian Service and started, in a very subtle way, bending BBC editorial guidelines to suit their political views.

With the new style of editorial leadership, the broadcasts of the Russian Service became more and more bland. “Dedicated” presenters were chosen not for their charisma and integrity but for their dedication to the management.

By the time I resigned in 2001, creativity in the Russian Service was stifled, individualism frowned upon and an atmosphere of fear and cynicism dominated. The only section of the Russian Service still producing programmes of intellectual distinction and outstanding cultural depth was the features department.

It is hardly surprising to me that, when economic necessity dictated, the editors of the Russian Service decided to close the features section, the last centre of excellence and free-thinking. What I find astounding is that Nigel Chapman allowed them to take advantage of his ignorance.

Irina Shumovitch

Producer, Russian Service, 1989-2001

London N5

Explore Letters

• Feedback