In comparison to its population size, Ethiopia is served by a relatively small number of private and state-owned television and radio stations. Although these have played a fundamental role in bridging the information gap, certain communities whose languages are not yet covered by the mainstream media remain impoverished in terms of their ability to access information. Community radio has the possibility to reach out to such groups, but at present the majority of community radio stations in Ethiopia are forced to operate with very limited means due to short supply of equipment and lack of...
IPDC Project beneficiary type: Civil society organizations
Access to information is of paramount importance in enabling economic, political and social development of Central Asian countries in their fight against corruption. In recent years, developments have been made in this area, with the passing of laws on Access to Information in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan occurring in 2006 and 2008 respectively, and discussions for a law on Access to Public Information in Kazakhstan being initiated in 2010. In spite of this progress however, Central Asian mass media continue to encounter problems in accessing information, with the 'Adil Soz' Foundation...
The Cape Verdean island of São Vicente possesses the highest unemployment rate in the country (23% compared to a national average of 17%), with the situation being worst among women and youths. Consequently, many of these unemployed inhabitants choose to take up an artistic career, contributing to a rich cultural scene. In recent years a National Arts and Crafts Centre has been established in the city of Mindelo, providing support for the production and sale of items made by local crafts people. The São Vicente Town Hall would like to further enhance its support for local artists by...
Access to accurate and reliable information is a necessity for the people of Pakistan in their struggle for democracy. At present, more than 40% of the Pakistani population lives in poverty, with over than two-thirds of this figure living in rural areas. Some 65% of people living in rural areas are illiterate and lack access to news and information. This project aims to address this worrying statistic by using radio as a means of reaching out and providing a voice to rural communities. A target group of 150 journalists, selected from 25 FM radio stations from smaller towns and rural areas...
The absence of a media complaints mechanism in Swaziland has led to a lack of trust of the media sector by the majority of citizens. In an effort to address the issue, the Cabinet of the Kingdom of Swaziland has endorsed the creation of a Media Commission Bill which would seek to regulate the media. However, this has been met with opposition by many media stakeholders who feel strongly that the media sector should be self-regulated and not subject to government control, particularly since the country's media landscape is at present dominated by state-owned channels. Media organizations...
The incidence of natural disasters in Bangladesh has risen in recent years, a trend which many attribute to climate change. With this rise we have also seen a change in attitudes relating to disaster management, with the focus turning increasingly towards risk management as opposed to response and relief. Many believe that the media should also adapt its focus to reflect this change by reporting not only during the post-disaster phase, but also before a disaster occurs, in an effort to educate the public about the risks and hazards and to influence policy changes. This project will deliver...
Since the outbreak of war in 1991, Somalia has ranked among the world's most dangerous and violent countries. With many journalists fleeing the country, this had a massive negative effect on the amount and quality of news coverage of the political and humanitarian crisis. Access to verified and relevant information within Somalia and in neighboring refugee camps is difficult and with the conflict continuing into its 20th year, it is becoming increasingly important to bring about change to the situation. The United Nations news agency, Integrated Regional Information Network (IRIN) has a...
The basic human right of freedom of expression is accounted for within Papua New Guinea's Constitution, thus serving as a tool to enhance empowerment of its people and assist in development. At present, the country has two major newspapers in circulation, with a handful of smaller newspapers existing within the main cities. In terms of electronic media, two television stations and two major national radio stations operate, with links to provincial station networks. This national-owned radio network covers most of the major centres, however certain areas remain outside the coverage zone,...
Senegal enjoys media diversity in both the broadcasting and print-media sectors, with the 1990s seeing an end to state domination and the emergence of private and community audiovisual media. At present, more than 58 community radios exist within the country, providing communities with the means to access information produced by local people, which is therefore tailored to the needs of a local audience. In spite of occupying this important role however, lack of training among personnel and insufficient financial resources to maintain and replace equipment pose a worrying threat to the...
Nepal's media sector has made great advances in the past two decades, with the introduction of laws ensuring press freedom paving the way for private and community involvement in the media. Today, more than 11 television channels broadcast from Kathmandu, and over 237 radio stations operate within the country, including a substantial number of community radio stations. Community radio has the proven potential to enable marginalized communities to exercise their right to knowledge and information, including them in policy and decision-making processes, and promoting the diversity of their...