Canadian Private Broadcasters - Voluntary Code Regarding Violence in Television Programming
The first version of the Voluntary Code Regarding Violence in Television Programming was created by the Canadian Association of Broadcasters (CAB) in 1987, and approved by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
However, in 1993, public concern about TV violence prompted the CRTC to announce a five-point agenda to address the issue. These five potential solutions were: industry codes; public education; the government's influence as a major advertiser; international collaboration; and recognition of quality children's programming.
In response to the CRTC’s call for action, the Action Group on Violence on Television (AGVOT) was formed. The group’s mandate included establishing stricter industry codes, and developing a television classification system. The CAB violence code was revised and strengthened, and came into effect January 1, 1994.
Of the code’s 35 guidelines, key commitments include:
An outright ban on the broadcast of programming containing gratuitous violence or violence that sanctions, promotes or glamorizes the use of physical force.
The establishment of a “watershed hour” of 9 p.m., before which programs containing scenes of violence intended for adults will not be aired
Sensitivity to the depiction of violence against vulnerable groups, such as women and minorities.
The inclusion of viewer advisories before (and during) programs that are intended for adult audiences, and those with scenes of violence are not suitable for children.
Strict guidelines on the depiction of violence in children's programming: - violence must not be shown as a preferred way of solving problems - the physical consequences of violence must be obvious - animated programming must not encourage dangerous imitation, and violence should not be the central theme
The Violence Code is administered by the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council (CBSC). To submit a complaint about broadcasting content that may contravene the Code, consumers can use the complaint forms on the CBSC and the CRTC Web sites (see right sidebar).
