Attendees are encouraged to share in advance:

• Suggestions about what they might be able to contribute to the meeting in terms of case studies, evidence and initiatives that could be presented or discussed.

• What their organisation hopes to achieve from attending

• Their suggestions for improving coordination and effectiveness of support to media in the region.

The GFMD and SahafaMed team will use this feedback to design the format and objectives of the meeting.

Mapping the funding landscape for media and journalism support in Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq (2025)

GFMD is conducting a mapping to evaluate the funding landscape in six focus countries (from 2020 to present).

We will use this information to:

• Support a sector-wide discussion on the funding situation at the GFMD regional meeting on 18 December 2024

• Identify gaps in funding and areas for collaboration/coordination.

• Avoid unnecessary duplication of efforts.

The mapping will be published in January 2025 following inputs from GFMD members at the 18 December regional meeting.

The document below includes data, top-level trends, and key findings from the GFMD's mapping of funding for media development and journalism support in the region, which will be presented during the meeting.

Click on the links below to for literature, case studies and other documents relevant to the GFMD Levant Regional Meeting on Media Support on 18 December 2024.

Mapping the funding landscape for media and journalism support in Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq (2025)

GFMD is conducting a mapping to evaluate the funding landscape in six focus countries (from 2020 to present).

We will use this information to:

• Support a sector-wide discussion on the funding situation at the GFMD regional meeting on 18 December 2024

• Identify gaps in funding and areas for collaboration/coordination.

• Avoid unnecessary duplication of efforts.

The mapping will be published in January 2025 following inputs from GFMD members at the 18 December regional meeting.

The document below includes data, top-level trends, and key findings from the GFMD's mapping of funding for media development and journalism support in the region, which will be presented during the meeting.

Click on the links below to for literature, case studies and other documents relevant to the GFMD Levant Regional Meeting on Media Support on 18 December 2024.

Organisers:

• Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)

• Journalisme & Citoyenneté - SahafaMed

Date: 28 April 2025

Time: 10:00 - 16:00

Location: Marseille, France

Registration:

Languages: Arabic, English, and French

The meeting agenda is available here:

The literature review is available here:

Who should attend?

• Media assistance and journalism support practitioners who are working in the Levant region.

• Donors and funders to media development and information integrity programmes in the region.

Which countries will the meeting focus on?

Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria.

What are the objectives of the meeting?

• Identify the most urgent funding needs in crisis and emergency contexts and evaluate how longer-term structural support can be mobilised, especially in areas where some donors have recently withdrawn.

• Provide recommendations to donors and intermediaries on how media assistance to the region can better align with the OECD Development Co-operation Principles for Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment which donors themselves have subscribed to.

• Review progress on since GFMD’s in-person MENA regional meeting at the ARIJ Conference in Amman, Jordan in November 2023. You can read the outcomes from that meeting, which brought together 80 donors, funders, media development practitioners and independent media actors, here.

How will the meeting achieve these objectives?

• The discussion will be informed by a new GFMD mapping of past, current and planned funding in the region, which will be shared in advance of the meeting.

• GFMD will use the contributions of members and partners to finalise the mapping report, which will be used by GFMD and our members in dialogue and policy discussions with existing and potential donors.

How can you contribute?

1. Share relevant resources Share reports analysing the Levant's current situation and funding landscape to include in the event resource page. Email them to communications@gfmd.info.

2. Emergency resource contributions Send us resources to add to the emergency resource page for journalists and media workers specifically dedicated to Lebanon, as well as a general list of over 20 emergency funds for media in crisis and 30+ emergency resources (available in Arabic) specifically for media and journalists, including crucial mental health support.

Please email relevant resources to communications@gfmd.info.

Your participation and insights will significantly enrich our discussions. If you have any questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Media Viability: The Global versus the Local (2023)

Global Forum for Media Development

Market reforms, rebuilding trust, and digital regulation and innovation were key themes to emerge from a series of consultations on media viability in Namibia, Tunisia, and Lebanon organised by GFMD. Three country reports that bring together policy recommendations for supporting journalism and independent media in these countries. The consultations built upon the previous UNESCO policy brief titled Finding the funds for journalism to thrive: policy options to support media viability, along with other relevant reports and literature. The goal was to stress-test and contextualise global policy recommendations.

Review of the Funding Landscape for Media Development Actors in Lebanon (2022)

Global Forum for Media Development

Across the MENA region, there has been a growing recognition that traditional approaches to media development are struggling to deliver the anticipated results. This acknowledgement has led some donors to conduct far-ranging needs assessments in order to better understand the priorities of their beneficiaries as well as the environmental constraints that have blunted the impact of media development initiatives in the past.

At the same time, the recipients of donor funding are increasingly asking to have a say in determining the kind of support that is provided by the international community. They say that programmes should be driven by demand rather than by donor assumptions or thematic priorities that do not fully reflect the situation on the ground.

The calls for proposals reviewed during this study suggest that donors are responding to these concerns. There is clear evidence of concerted efforts to make funding more accessible to local organisations and to move the centre of gravity away from international partners. Although some programmes remain out of the reach of local players due to the size of their budgets or their regional scope, they often include very significant sub-granting programmes aimed at helping local media to become viable businesses and at supporting the production of public interest content.

The Media and Information Landscape in Lebanon (MILA) report (2021)

Internews and Maharat Foundation as part of the Kingdom of Netherlands funded project Advancing Diverse Voices in Lebanon

The Media and Information Landscape in Lebanon (MILA) report examines the media habits and preferences of the Lebanese people through data collection from audiences and media outlets.

Media Viability: The Global versus the Local (2023)

Global Forum for Media Development

Market reforms, rebuilding trust, and digital regulation and innovation were key themes to emerge from a series of consultations on media viability in Namibia, Tunisia, and Lebanon organised by GFMD. Three country reports that bring together policy recommendations for supporting journalism and independent media in these countries. The consultations built upon the previous UNESCO policy brief titled Finding the funds for journalism to thrive: policy options to support media viability, along with other relevant reports and literature. The goal was to stress-test and contextualise global policy recommendations.

Review of the Funding Landscape for Media Development Actors in Lebanon (2022)

Global Forum for Media Development

Across the MENA region, there has been a growing recognition that traditional approaches to media development are struggling to deliver the anticipated results. This acknowledgement has led some donors to conduct far-ranging needs assessments in order to better understand the priorities of their beneficiaries as well as the environmental constraints that have blunted the impact of media development initiatives in the past.

At the same time, the recipients of donor funding are increasingly asking to have a say in determining the kind of support that is provided by the international community. They say that programmes should be driven by demand rather than by donor assumptions or thematic priorities that do not fully reflect the situation on the ground.

The calls for proposals reviewed during this study suggest that donors are responding to these concerns. There is clear evidence of concerted efforts to make funding more accessible to local organisations and to move the centre of gravity away from international partners. Although some programmes remain out of the reach of local players due to the size of their budgets or their regional scope, they often include very significant sub-granting programmes aimed at helping local media to become viable businesses and at supporting the production of public interest content.

The Media and Information Landscape in Lebanon (MILA) report (2021)

Internews and Maharat Foundation as part of the Kingdom of Netherlands funded project Advancing Diverse Voices in Lebanon

The Media and Information Landscape in Lebanon (MILA) report examines the media habits and preferences of the Lebanese people through data collection from audiences and media outlets.

Our vision

Independent journalism is an integral part of functioning democratic societies.

But there are challenges facing donors and philanthropists attempting to do this work:

Why is GFMD IMPACT needed?

"It is critical to deal with the relationship between donors and practitioners, as well as the knowledge and information that they accumulate during the course of their work. We must share knowledge and learn about what works and what doesn't, as well as catalog that knowledge, in order to achieve better results and articulate those results. The GFMD IMPACT project aims to address these critical sector questions." – Mark Nelson, Director, Center for International Media Assistance (CIMA)

“SDC supports the GFMD IMPACT project because the media development and journalism support sector requires a better long-term mechanism for exchanging evidence about what works and formulate policy guidance in order to respond effectively to this rapidly changing and challenging field. The Global Forum for Media Development, we believe, is best positioned to address these issues on a global scale.” – Melina Papageorgiou, Governance Advisor, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)

"GFMD IMPACT is providing a much needed space for dialogue, critical reflection and community building for the media development sector. The IAMCR Media Sector Development Working Group is grateful for our partnership with GFMD IMPACT. Especially during the pandemic time period, GFMD has come up with great events, kept the lines of communication going and fostered a sense of direction by providing servant leadership that's contributed to the growth and well-being of its members." - Susan Abbott, Co-Chair, Media Sector Development Working Group at IAMCR

The scope of the problem we address is vast

To address these issues, GFMD established the International Media Policy and Advisory Centre (IMPACT), which brings together key media development and journalism support stakeholders to ensure more effective (demand-driven & coordinated) and impactful (contextually tailored & oriented toward long-term, strategic goals) sector support.

The initiative officially launched in 2020 with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, National Endowment for Democracy, Open Society Foundations and UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

We want to build on the momentum and impact of this initiative into 2022 and beyond.

Our goals

Our programme provides donors, funders, policy-makers and practitioners with the necessary groundwork needed to make informed, evidence-based decisions about media development and journalism support strategies, programming, funding, and advocacy by:

We do it this way

Learning meetings

GFMD IMPACT learning meetings facilitate regular communication, knowledge sharing and experience exchange between donors, practitioners, academics and other key stakeholders.

GFMD IMPACT's learning meetings:

Detailed literature reviews and meeting reports are prepared for each meeting.

Policy and learning meetings

Help desk

Resource centre

About GFMD IMPACT

For more information about GFMD IMPACT see our about and FAQs page.

A Legal-Political Analysis of the Constitutional Declaration (2025)

Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM)

The victims’ perspective on reparation for enforced disappearance: Syria as a case study (2024)

Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM)

In the present Syrian context, where enforced disappearance is widely practiced as a repressive tactic, the legal frameworks for the prevention and remedy of disappearances are notably deficient or absent within Syrian statutes. Therefore, this research explores reparation for enforced disappearance from the perception of Syrians who may have experienced enforced disappearance themselves or are relatives of someone who was a victim of enforced disappearance or is still missing. The research also focuses on how the participants understand reparation, how they envisage reparation measures in the future, whether reparation is possible in Syria, and their perception of the existing mechanisms that tackle enforced disappearance in Syria.

A Call for Effective Support to Syrian Independent Media as a Key Component in Mitigating and Resolving the Syrian Conflict: White Paper (2015)

Global Forum for Media Development

In 2013, GFMD launched an international coordination meeting on media development efforts in Syria in collaboration with three of our members:

• International Media Support (IMS)

• Free Press Unlimited (FPU)

• International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX)

The first working conference identified gaps and needs in support of media in Syria.

The efforts around Syria led to the production of this GFMD White Paper for Syrian Media Assistance in June 2016.

Here you will find the list of GFMD IMPACT's learning meetings held in 2024:

Media Professionalism Index (2023)

TAFNIED MTÜ

A digital platform that is the result of a collaborative effort among several Arabic institutions specialised in fact-checking and news verification

The index works on analysing and evaluating the professionalism of content published by the most influential and widespread Arabic media outlets. This is done through a set of criteria and indicators, comparing different media outlets in terms of content, perspectives, objectives, and the extent to which professional standards are met.

Tomorrow's Journalism in the Southern Mediterranean Countries (2023)

SahafaMed

This is a study of the needs of the media and independent journalists.

The study, completed in September 2023, provides an overview of the situation of the media and journalism in the various countries of the region, with a view to identifying prospects and courses of action to promote and sustain, through independent media, free journalism at the service of society and the general interest. It also aims to improve the match between the needs of journalists and the programs proposed by donors and organizations in charge of media development.

Public Funding for Private Media in the MENA Region (PRIMED, April 2022)

Authored by Sarah Zaarour

This research paper was commissioned by BBC Media Action to support discussions in a national conference in Sierra Leone in April 2022 aimed at fostering an enabling environment for media investment and at exploring new ways of supporting independent media. Combining desk research and interviews, it examines national funding mechanisms for private media in the five selected countries and gives a general assessment of their role in promoting viable, independent, and diverse media.

Building Regional Strategies for Media Development in the Middle East and North Africa (2020)

Center for International Media Assistance

Experts from 13 countries in the Middle East and North Africa agreed on the priorities that could provide the basis for greater collective action to defend independent media in the region. This report provides a summary of those deliberations.

Combating Disinformation in the Arab World - The COVID-19 pandemic as a case study (2020)

Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ)

The policy paper, conducted by researcher Noha Atef, and with support from Basma ElMahdy and Basma Mostafa, uses COVID-19 as a model to arrive at the causes and effects of misleading content, also offering alternative solutions that would allow for the improvement of media performance.

Tunisia

Tunisia Media Landscape Assessment (2023)

Internews

Tunisia has undertaken significant strides towards its democratic transition in recent history, with freedom of expression and a vibrant media landscape being two of the main gains from the Jasmine revolution. However, almost a decade later, the levels of trust Tunisians have towards the electoral and political processes (EPP) in their country are on a downward trend. This lack of trust can be attributed to several factors, most notably that citizens believe elected officials and political parties are doing little to address their needs, paralleled with a media landscape, which despite being vibrant in volume, is in need of significant strengthening in capacity, credibility, relevance and reach.

Media Professionalism Index (2023)

TAFNIED MTÜ

A digital platform that is the result of a collaborative effort among several Arabic institutions specialised in fact-checking and news verification

The index works on analysing and evaluating the professionalism of content published by the most influential and widespread Arabic media outlets. This is done through a set of criteria and indicators, comparing different media outlets in terms of content, perspectives, objectives, and the extent to which professional standards are met.

Tomorrow's Journalism in the Southern Mediterranean Countries (2023)

SahafaMed

This is a study of the needs of the media and independent journalists.

The study, completed in September 2023, provides an overview of the situation of the media and journalism in the various countries of the region, with a view to identifying prospects and courses of action to promote and sustain, through independent media, free journalism at the service of society and the general interest. It also aims to improve the match between the needs of journalists and the programs proposed by donors and organizations in charge of media development.

Public Funding for Private Media in the MENA Region (PRIMED, April 2022)

Authored by Sarah Zaarour

This research paper was commissioned by BBC Media Action to support discussions in a national conference in Sierra Leone in April 2022 aimed at fostering an enabling environment for media investment and at exploring new ways of supporting independent media. Combining desk research and interviews, it examines national funding mechanisms for private media in the five selected countries and gives a general assessment of their role in promoting viable, independent, and diverse media.

Building Regional Strategies for Media Development in the Middle East and North Africa (2020)

Center for International Media Assistance

Experts from 13 countries in the Middle East and North Africa agreed on the priorities that could provide the basis for greater collective action to defend independent media in the region. This report provides a summary of those deliberations.

Combating Disinformation in the Arab World - The COVID-19 pandemic as a case study (2020)

Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ)

The policy paper, conducted by researcher Noha Atef, and with support from Basma ElMahdy and Basma Mostafa, uses COVID-19 as a model to arrive at the causes and effects of misleading content, also offering alternative solutions that would allow for the improvement of media performance.

Tunisia

Tunisia Media Landscape Assessment (2023)

Internews

Tunisia has undertaken significant strides towards its democratic transition in recent history, with freedom of expression and a vibrant media landscape being two of the main gains from the Jasmine revolution. However, almost a decade later, the levels of trust Tunisians have towards the electoral and political processes (EPP) in their country are on a downward trend. This lack of trust can be attributed to several factors, most notably that citizens believe elected officials and political parties are doing little to address their needs, paralleled with a media landscape, which despite being vibrant in volume, is in need of significant strengthening in capacity, credibility, relevance and reach.

OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment (2024)

The OECD Principles Resource Centre, managed by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD), serves as a hub for information and resources related to adopting, implementing, and disseminating the Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

Here, you can access the full text of the Principles in both English and French, explore case studies, review related literature, and stay informed about ongoing efforts to implement these guidelines.

Clearing the Fog of War - Protecting Freedom of Expression in Armed Conflict (2024)

ARTICLE 19

The objective of this policy brief is to reinforce existing rules and promote an increased understanding of relevant legal standards among the various stakeholders, including military commanders, humanitarian and human rights organisations, private companies, and the public more generally. They believe that IHRL, particularly freedom of expression standards, can effectively complement existing protections under IHL in the face of the changing realities of modern armed conflicts and help prevent harm to those affected.

Transforming Media Development – Recommendations for Effective Funding and Collaboration (2023)

Global Forum for Media Development

This study is based on a body of desk research as well as a series of online interviews with GFMD members. It documents the challenges that GFMD’s members face daily in their attempts to raise funds and live up to donor expectations on reporting and accountability. This report builds on the findings of surveys conducted by GFMD in 2018 and 2022 to assess members’ perceptions of fundraising processes and donor priorities for the media and the media development sector. Over the past five years, research by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) has revealed significant challenges in fundraising and business development for media support organisations.

Reporter's Guide to Investigating War Crimes (2023)

(available in English, Arabic and Ukrainian)

Global Investigative Journalism Network (GJIN)

GIJN’s comprehensive Reporter’s Guide to Investigating War Crimes includes expert advice from more than two dozen specialists and journalists, covering everything from the legal aspects of war, attacks on civilians, conflict-related sexual violence, environmental crimes, banned weapons, genocide, forced disappearances, archiving evidence, open source research, military command structures, tracing war criminals, documenting with photo and video, physical and digital security best practices, and self-care for covering traumatic events.

National Journalism Funds – Policy Paper (2022)

Global Forum for Media Development

There are a number of countries where funders could – with the right strategies, support, partnerships and safeguards – undertake interventions to bolster and strengthen the independence of the journalism ecosystem. As part of this, with the right levels of financial support, independence from political, industrial or other interests, a commitment to the public interest above all, and an outlook that is genuinely strategic and structural, such ‘national funds for journalism’ (NFJs) could be part of a breakthrough solution for countries or regions worldwide looking to develop sustainable homegrown independent media.

GFMD IMPACT has compiled a comprehensive and growing spreadsheet with examples of a variety of government-supported and national journalism funds featuring examples and literature on more than 40 national journalism funds in this ever-evolving field.

GFMD commissioned two new complementary briefings, designed to inform efforts to advocate for, design and build such NFJs around the world:

Coordinating media assistance and journalism support efforts (2022)

Global Forum for Media Development, in partnership with Samir Kassir Foundation’s SKeyes Centre for Media and Cultural Freedom, and International Media Support (IMS)

The need for coordination and information sharing within the media development industry is widely recognised – particularly in the wake of conflict or crisis. Common wisdom holds that coordination plays an essential role in avoiding duplication or contradictions between programmes funded by different donors and offers a unique opportunity to explore synergies between complementary strands of work. This report analyses the scope and focus of media assistance coordination efforts, highlighting common pitfalls as well as best practice models.

The white paper recommended that donors provide long-term, stable support for an independent coordination process involving Syrians, implementers, and donors. It is important to acknowledge that donor priorities in Syria were in flux at the time, with media ecosystem support becoming less of a priority compared to projects focused on ‘countering violent extremism’ or even direct support for the revolution. One of the most effective outputs was the coordination group’s move to develop a separate effort on the safety and security of journalists, which included both local and international participation.

MediaDev Fundraising Guide - Arabic

Global Forum for Media Development

GFMD's Fundraising Guide for Media Development and journalism support is also translated into Arabic and is hosted by GFMD member ARIJ - the Arabic Reporters for Investigative Journalism. The guide will help to equip Arabic media, media development, and journalism support organisations with the essential tools and knowledge needed to diversify their funding sources, build sustainable revenue models, and foster long-term financial stability.

OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment (2024)

The OECD Principles Resource Centre, managed by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD), serves as a hub for information and resources related to adopting, implementing, and disseminating the Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

Here, you can access the full text of the Principles in both English and French, explore case studies, review related literature, and stay informed about ongoing efforts to implement these guidelines.

Clearing the Fog of War - Protecting Freedom of Expression in Armed Conflict (2024)

ARTICLE 19

The objective of this policy brief is to reinforce existing rules and promote an increased understanding of relevant legal standards among the various stakeholders, including military commanders, humanitarian and human rights organisations, private companies, and the public more generally. They believe that IHRL, particularly freedom of expression standards, can effectively complement existing protections under IHL in the face of the changing realities of modern armed conflicts and help prevent harm to those affected.

Transforming Media Development – Recommendations for Effective Funding and Collaboration (2023)

Global Forum for Media Development

This study is based on a body of desk research as well as a series of online interviews with GFMD members. It documents the challenges that GFMD’s members face daily in their attempts to raise funds and live up to donor expectations on reporting and accountability. This report builds on the findings of surveys conducted by GFMD in 2018 and 2022 to assess members’ perceptions of fundraising processes and donor priorities for the media and the media development sector. Over the past five years, research by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) has revealed significant challenges in fundraising and business development for media support organisations.

Reporter's Guide to Investigating War Crimes (2023)

(available in English, Arabic and Ukrainian)

Global Investigative Journalism Network (GJIN)

GIJN’s comprehensive Reporter’s Guide to Investigating War Crimes includes expert advice from more than two dozen specialists and journalists, covering everything from the legal aspects of war, attacks on civilians, conflict-related sexual violence, environmental crimes, banned weapons, genocide, forced disappearances, archiving evidence, open source research, military command structures, tracing war criminals, documenting with photo and video, physical and digital security best practices, and self-care for covering traumatic events.

National Journalism Funds – Policy Paper (2022)

Global Forum for Media Development

There are a number of countries where funders could – with the right strategies, support, partnerships and safeguards – undertake interventions to bolster and strengthen the independence of the journalism ecosystem. As part of this, with the right levels of financial support, independence from political, industrial or other interests, a commitment to the public interest above all, and an outlook that is genuinely strategic and structural, such ‘national funds for journalism’ (NFJs) could be part of a breakthrough solution for countries or regions worldwide looking to develop sustainable homegrown independent media.

GFMD IMPACT has compiled a comprehensive and growing spreadsheet with examples of a variety of government-supported and national journalism funds featuring examples and literature on more than 40 national journalism funds in this ever-evolving field.

GFMD commissioned two new complementary briefings, designed to inform efforts to advocate for, design and build such NFJs around the world:

Coordinating media assistance and journalism support efforts (2022)

Global Forum for Media Development, in partnership with Samir Kassir Foundation’s SKeyes Centre for Media and Cultural Freedom, and International Media Support (IMS)

The need for coordination and information sharing within the media development industry is widely recognised – particularly in the wake of conflict or crisis. Common wisdom holds that coordination plays an essential role in avoiding duplication or contradictions between programmes funded by different donors and offers a unique opportunity to explore synergies between complementary strands of work. This report analyses the scope and focus of media assistance coordination efforts, highlighting common pitfalls as well as best practice models.

The white paper recommended that donors provide long-term, stable support for an independent coordination process involving Syrians, implementers, and donors. It is important to acknowledge that donor priorities in Syria were in flux at the time, with media ecosystem support becoming less of a priority compared to projects focused on ‘countering violent extremism’ or even direct support for the revolution. One of the most effective outputs was the coordination group’s move to develop a separate effort on the safety and security of journalists, which included both local and international participation.

MediaDev Fundraising Guide - Arabic

Global Forum for Media Development

GFMD's Fundraising Guide for Media Development and journalism support is also translated into Arabic and is hosted by GFMD member ARIJ - the Arabic Reporters for Investigative Journalism. The guide will help to equip Arabic media, media development, and journalism support organisations with the essential tools and knowledge needed to diversify their funding sources, build sustainable revenue models, and foster long-term financial stability.

A/79/319: Global threats to freedom of expression arising from the conflict in Gaza - Report of the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan (2024)

The United Nations Human Rights

In the present report, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression examines the impact of the conflict in Gaza on freedom of expression globally. She highlights attacks on journalists and media restrictions, endangering access to information about the conflict globally; suppression of protests and dissent and undermining of academic and artistic freedoms in polarized political environment; and restrictions on advocacy for the rights of Palestinian people. Emphasising the importance of freedom of opinion and expression – enjoyed on an equal basis by all sides – as an invaluable tool for fighting hate and encouraging mutual respect and dialogue, the Special Rapporteur calls on States, social media companies and other private actors to reject double standards on human rights and makes concrete recommendations for them to uphold the right to freedom of opinion and expression in the name of fighting terrorism and antisemitism.

Media Landscape Assessment: West Bank & Gaza (2024)

Internews

This Media Landscape Assessment (MLA) was conducted by Internews as part of a USAID-funded project in the West Bank and Gaza, namely the Democratic Leadership Activity. Research activities were carried out during the height of conflict between Hamas and Israel, following the October 7th attacks. The overarching objective of the MLA is to develop a thorough understanding of the media consumption habits among information consumers (i.e., local citizens) and assess the capacities, needs and gaps of information producers, including media outlets, independent journalists, and relevant stakeholders (e.g., civil society and women’s rights organizations).

A Survey of Gaza's Journalists During the War (Oct-Nov 2024) (2024)

Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ)

The Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ) has conducted a survey to document the losses, humanitarian conditions, and multitude of challenges faced by Palestinian journalists during the ongoing Israeli war in Gaza. This survey includes responses from 383 journalists who are either in Gaza or were there at some point during the war. While some have since evacuated the Gaza Strip, the majority remain in Gaza, working amid increasingly dire circumstances.

The survey, distributed via email and text messages between October 25 and November 7, 2024, collected both quantitative and qualitative data. It offers insights into the personal losses, working conditions, and hardships faced by journalists in Gaza.

Palestinian Media Needs Assessment in the Context of the 2021 Jerusalem Uprising and the Gaza War (2021)

The Samir Kassir Foundation (SKF)

This report summarises the findings of a survey conducted from July 1 to August 1, 2021. Although all efforts have been made to verify the accuracy of the information that was collected and analysed, the assessment was produced in a short timeframe to ensure relevance of the estimation of damages and needs. The assessment provides an overall picture of the damages sustained to media professionals, physical assets, and infrastructure. This assessment aims to summarise sustained damage and is not meant to replace in-depth sector-specific assessments.

Palestinian Media Sector Assessment of Needs, Challenges, and Pluralism (2021)

The Samir Kassir Foundation with the support of UNESCO

This study aims to identify the ability of Palestinian media institutions to grow, generate, and attract revenues, despite the challenges they are facing. It is built upon a sophisticated methodology that combines desk research, economic analysis, electronic surveys, in-depth key informant interviews, and focus group discussions.

A/79/319: Global threats to freedom of expression arising from the conflict in Gaza - Report of the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan (2024)

The United Nations Human Rights

In the present report, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression examines the impact of the conflict in Gaza on freedom of expression globally. She highlights attacks on journalists and media restrictions, endangering access to information about the conflict globally; suppression of protests and dissent and undermining of academic and artistic freedoms in polarized political environment; and restrictions on advocacy for the rights of Palestinian people. Emphasising the importance of freedom of opinion and expression – enjoyed on an equal basis by all sides – as an invaluable tool for fighting hate and encouraging mutual respect and dialogue, the Special Rapporteur calls on States, social media companies and other private actors to reject double standards on human rights and makes concrete recommendations for them to uphold the right to freedom of opinion and expression in the name of fighting terrorism and antisemitism.

Media Landscape Assessment: West Bank & Gaza (2024)

Internews

This Media Landscape Assessment (MLA) was conducted by Internews as part of a USAID-funded project in the West Bank and Gaza, namely the Democratic Leadership Activity. Research activities were carried out during the height of conflict between Hamas and Israel, following the October 7th attacks. The overarching objective of the MLA is to develop a thorough understanding of the media consumption habits among information consumers (i.e., local citizens) and assess the capacities, needs and gaps of information producers, including media outlets, independent journalists, and relevant stakeholders (e.g., civil society and women’s rights organizations).

A Survey of Gaza's Journalists During the War (Oct-Nov 2024) (2024)

Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ)

The Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ) has conducted a survey to document the losses, humanitarian conditions, and multitude of challenges faced by Palestinian journalists during the ongoing Israeli war in Gaza. This survey includes responses from 383 journalists who are either in Gaza or were there at some point during the war. While some have since evacuated the Gaza Strip, the majority remain in Gaza, working amid increasingly dire circumstances.

The survey, distributed via email and text messages between October 25 and November 7, 2024, collected both quantitative and qualitative data. It offers insights into the personal losses, working conditions, and hardships faced by journalists in Gaza.

Palestinian Media Needs Assessment in the Context of the 2021 Jerusalem Uprising and the Gaza War (2021)

The Samir Kassir Foundation (SKF)

This report summarises the findings of a survey conducted from July 1 to August 1, 2021. Although all efforts have been made to verify the accuracy of the information that was collected and analysed, the assessment was produced in a short timeframe to ensure relevance of the estimation of damages and needs. The assessment provides an overall picture of the damages sustained to media professionals, physical assets, and infrastructure. This assessment aims to summarise sustained damage and is not meant to replace in-depth sector-specific assessments.

Palestinian Media Sector Assessment of Needs, Challenges, and Pluralism (2021)

The Samir Kassir Foundation with the support of UNESCO

This study aims to identify the ability of Palestinian media institutions to grow, generate, and attract revenues, despite the challenges they are facing. It is built upon a sophisticated methodology that combines desk research, economic analysis, electronic surveys, in-depth key informant interviews, and focus group discussions.

Date: Wednesday, October 30th, 2024

Time: 9:00-10:30 EDT | 14:00-15:30 CEST | 16:00-17:30 PM Addis – Amman - Istanbul

Organisers

• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

• Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)

• Search for Common Ground (SFCG)

Target Audience

• UNDP Governance and Human Development communities of practice

• UNDP partners at country level, especially in the governance area

• GFMD and SFCG partners

• Academia and civil society organisations working on democracy related topics

Objective

This initiative is part of the webinar series “2023/2024 Human Development Report and innovative governance programming”. This webinar is the first one of a series that will explore concrete steps and entry points to turning the HDR recommendations into action on governance initiatives in the field, accelerating development work towards regions. Other topics covered by the series are: “Measuring polarization”, “Deliberative democracy” and “Public Communication and (de)polarization for breaking the gridlock”.

The webinar “Media actors and the (de)construction of the ‘other’: exploring insights from HDR 2023 for innovative governance programming” explored the opportunities and challenges of partnership with media actors as a way to reducing polarisation and promoting more constructive citizen dialogue. It presented the concept, methods, and inspiring examples for building innovative partnerships with media for strengthened governance practices. The event was jointly organised with the Global Forum for Media and Development and Search for Common Ground. With impactful activities on media development in different countries, both organisations have been playing a leading role in recent years in promoting innovative approaches for partnerships with media for improved governance. As such, they represent critical partners in this space.

Learning Goals

1. Discuss the concept of media development in the context of HDR recommendations

2. Learn how partnerships with media can be strengthened to enhance citizens trust on public institutions, reducing polarization and strengthening democracy

3. Amplify/resurface concrete applied country examples on media development to promote innovative governance practices

Here you will find the list of GFMD IMPACT's learning meetings held in 2025:

Key insights

10 lessons learnt

1. High support for democracy can co-exist with rising support for authoritarian leaders, signalling a need to address public dissatisfaction with democratic processes and a lack of personal agency.

2. Although there is broad public support for tackling global issues like climate change through collective action, perceived discrepancies in others’ willingness to act can hinder cooperation, hinting at the importance of aligning expectations for collective action.

3. High-quality, accurate media is critical for upholding democratic governance, the rule of law, and peacebuilding, as it helps bridge divisions and clarify intentions among diverse groups.

4. Media ownership often reflects specific interests, consolidating power and limiting objectivity, which can exacerbate misinformation and fuel polarization.

5. Increasing attacks on journalists and shrinking civic space underscore the need for strengthening protections that allow media to operate freely and independently.

6. Media initiatives using diverse formats, such as multi-media shows and youth-led storytelling, encourage the youth to voice their unique perspective, as being part of a divided society but often detached from the legacy of historical context. These efforts don't only foster connections amongst the youth but also plant the seeds for healing and reconciliation.

7. Tailoring media initiatives to local contexts by amplifying the voice of local leaders is essential for effectiveness and relevance, helping ensure that these efforts resonate with the intended audience.

8. Initiatives such as the Youth Talk supported by the SFCG in South Sudan and the Great Lakes Generation Radio Show demonstrate that cross-cultural media can be effective in building shared understanding and replacing "us vs. them" attitudes with a collective sense of identity.

10. Collaborations between media and ethical businesses and/or independent organizations can support sustainable media practices that uphold democracy, strengthen public trust and counter polarization.

Appendix II:

Follow-up Resources:

OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment

The OECD Principles Resource Centre, managed by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD), serves as a hub for information and resources related to adopting, implementing, and disseminating the Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

Here, you can access the full text of the Principles in both English and French, explore case studies, review related literature, and stay informed about ongoing efforts to implement these guidelines.

Human Development Report 2023/2024: Breaking the Gridlock: Reimagining Cooperation in a Polarised World

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The 2023/24 Human Development Report assesses the dangerous gridlock resulting from uneven development progress, intensifying inequality, and escalating political polarisation, that we must urgently tackle. The report emphasises how global interdependence is being reconfigured and proposes a path forward where multilateralism plays a pivotal role.

Transforming Media Development – Recommendations for Effective Funding and Collaboration

Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)

In 2023, GFMD launched a report on funding in the media development sector: “Transforming Media Development – Recommendations for Effective Funding and Collaboration “. This study is based on a body of desk research as well as a series of online interviews with GFMD members from Eastern Europe, Asia and South America. This report builds on the findings of surveys conducted by GFMD in 2018 and 2022 to assess members’ perceptions of fundraising processes and donor priorities for the media and the media development sector and documents the challenges that GFMD’s members face daily in their attempts to raise funds and live up to donor expectations on reporting and accountability.

Understanding the role of local media in promoting social cohesion in Ukraine: what method? what results?

Fondation Hirondelle & The International Institute for Regional Media and Information (IRMI)

As part of the ‘Improving Ukrainian media resilience’ project, Fondation Hirondelle and the International Institute for Regional Media and Information (IRMI) have launched a sociological study to understand how to reconnect local media and their audiences.

Conducted by Ukrainian research organisation OPERATYVNA SOTSIOLOHIIA between March and September 2024, the research gathered the views of 2,391 participants and included 49 discussions to explore the vital role of local media in accessing information and supporting communities during war and post-conflict reconstruction. It offers a unique insight into the dynamics of social cohesion and changing information needs in 23 communities, most of which are located along the frontline in eastern and south-eastern Ukraine.

Donor workshop to exchange insights on supporting organisations at the forefront of critical journalism policy work, both locally and globally, with focus around The Summit of the Future and in preparation for the World Summit on Information Society 2025

Date: Friday, September 6th, 15:00 - 16:45 CET

Location: Online - Google Meet

Registration: To register, please use this form.

Participants: The workshop will bring together representatives from bilateral and private donors, the European Union, UN agencies, the OECD, and other key institutions. We will also invite media development and journalism support organisations to present their work, highlighting critical needs and gaps in grassroots advocacy support.

Focus: Processes such as the Summit of the Future, the World Summit on Information Society 2025, and advocacy around digital policies and regulations

Objective

GFMD, its members and partners efforts focus on advocating that processes such as the Summit of the Future and its key outcome document, the Pact for the Future, as well as annex to the Pact - The Global Digital Compact, acknowledge the centrality of access to information and fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression and media freedom, including the safety of journalists, the vibrancy and viability of public interest media, and the resilience of a healthy, affordable, and autonomous information ecosystem.

Points for discussion

Our discussions will focus on mapping key current initiatives, sharing real-world experiences of organisations and donors who are advancing essential policies—including digital regulation and AI, public interest media support, and advocacy for more and better journalism and media funding. We will also explore the strategic efforts of policy networks and coalitions, with a focus on sharing information between donors and funders on how they support these policy-driven initiatives.

Expected outcomes

• Better aligned donor support for policy and advocacy efforts on the ground

• Identified gaps and needs for donor support in advocacy and policy processes

• Identified processes and avenues for advocacy as well as organisations engaging with these processes on grassroots levels

Organisers: Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)

Date: 18 December 2024

Time: 15:00–17:00 Beirut / 16:00–18:00 Amman / 14:00–16:00 Brussels

Location: Online - Zoom

Registration: Register here to attend

Languages: English and Arabic (English-Arabic and Arabic-English interpretation will be available).

The meeting agenda is available here:

The literature review is available here:

Who should attend?

• Media assistance and journalism support practitioners who are working in the Levant region.

• Donors and funders to media development and information integrity programmes in the region.

Which countries will the meeting focus on?

Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria

What are the objectives of the meeting?

• Identify the most urgent funding needs in crisis and emergency contexts and evaluate how longer-term structural support can be mobilised, especially in areas where some donors have recently withdrawn.

• Provide recommendations to donors and intermediaries on how media assistance to the region can better align with the OECD Development Co-operation Principles for Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment which donors themselves have subscribed to.

• Review progress on since GFMD’s in-person MENA regional meeting at the ARIJ Conference in Amman, Jordan in November 2023. You can read the outcomes from that meeting, which brought together 80 donors, funders, media development practitioners and independent media actors, here.

How will the meeting achieve these objectives?

• The discussion will be informed by a new GFMD mapping of past, current and planned funding in the region, which will be shared in advance of the meeting.

• GFMD will use the contributions of members and partners to finalise the mapping report, which will be used by GFMD and our members in dialogue and policy discussions with existing and potential donors.

How can you contribute?

1. Help us gather data on funding and programmes Add details to the spreadsheet compiling funding opportunities in Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, and Türkiye (exiled media). Please update the data by 30 November 2024. Refer to the “Instructions” sheet for guidance.

2. Share relevant resources Share reports analysing the Levant's current situation and funding landscape to include in the event resource page. Email them to communications@gfmd.info.

3. Sign the technical note Support advocacy efforts in Lebanon by signing the Technical note for International Media Assistance Actors in Lebanon. Sign via this form.

4. Emergency resource contributions Send us resources to add to the emergency resource page for journalists and media workers specifically dedicated to Lebanon, as well as a general list of over 20 emergency funds for media in crisis and 30+ emergency resources (available in Arabic) specifically for media and journalists, including crucial mental health support.

   Please email relevant resources to communications@gfmd.info.

Your participation and insights will significantly enrich our discussions. If you have any questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

To learn more about Policy and Learning Call "Advocating for media freedom and public interest journalism: Coordinating policy and advocacy working groups" on August 28, 2024, please visit the page below:

To learn more about the Donor Workshop "Inclusion of local voices in advocating for public interest media and journalism in national and global policy processes" on September 6, 2024, please visit the page below:

The victims’ perspective on reparation for enforced disappearance: Syria as a case study (2024)

Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM)

In the present Syrian context, where enforced disappearance is widely practiced as a repressive tactic, the legal frameworks for the prevention and remedy of disappearances are notably deficient or absent within Syrian statutes. Therefore, this research explores reparation for enforced disappearance from the perception of Syrians who may have experienced enforced disappearance themselves or are relatives of someone who was a victim of enforced disappearance or is still missing. The research also focuses on how the participants understand reparation, how they envisage reparation measures in the future, whether reparation is possible in Syria, and their perception of the existing mechanisms that tackle enforced disappearance in Syria.

A Call for Effective Support to Syrian Independent Media as a Key Component in Mitigating and Resolving the Syrian Conflict: White Paper (2015)

Global Forum for Media Development

In 2013, GFMD launched an international coordination meeting on media development efforts in Syria in collaboration with three of our members:

• International Media Support (IMS)

• Free Press Unlimited (FPU)

• International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX)

The first working conference identified gaps and needs in support of media in Syria.

The efforts around Syria led to the production of this GFMD White Paper for Syrian Media Assistance in June 2016.

The document below includes data, top-level trends, and key findings from the GFMD's mapping of funding for media development and journalism support in the region, which will be presented during the meeting.

The GFMD regional meeting for the wider European region took place on May 24, 2024, in Sarajevo during the IPI World Congress and Media Innovation Festival. The meeting was organised by the GFMD and UNESCO, in partnership with the International Press Institute (IPI), the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), and the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN).

The GFMD regional meeting aimed to provide a unique space for members and partners based and working in the wider European region to foster dialogue and collaborate on critical issues facing the present media landscape. Through collaborative discussions and knowledge sharing, participants explored best practices and innovative solutions to support a thriving and independent media in the region. The meeting also reinvigorated support for independent media and the information environment across the wider European region by uniting journalists and media support actors with donors and policymakers in brainstorming strategies for implementing the recently adopted OECD Development Cooperation Principles for Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

Zoe Titus, Director of Namibia Media Trust and Chair of GFMD, Saorla McCabe, Director of Communication and Information Strategy and Policy at UNESCO and Deputy First Secretary of the UNESCO IPDC, and Sara Lindegren, Deputy Head of Mission-Counsellor at the Embassy of Sweden in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, opened the meeting by highlighting how important media support is today, and how new initiatives are paving the way for more effective engagement by donors and funders.

“We are meeting today amidst a period of great peril and uncertainty about the future of journalism and the media support sector. All of us in our different ways are navigating our organisations through a myriad of economic, political and cultural challenges. But there ARE opportunities. Opportunities that we can grasp if we are able to work together and show genuine solidarity with each other,” said Zoe Titus.

Using the OECD Principles as a catalyst for change

A panel moderated by GFMD's Executive Director Mira Milosevic initiated a discussion of the OECD's Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment as a catalyst for change.

The IPI Congress was organised in the hotel Holiday that has a symbolic significance and was the base for journalists during the 1992-1995 Sarajevo siege, and one of the Congress sessions was dedicated to reflecting on the siege of Sarajevo. GFMD’s regional event panel also looked back on the experiences and lessons learned and how assistance changed over the years.

Mediacentar Sarajevo was established in April 1995 during the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina to address the gap in journalism as media outlets multiplied but lacked sufficient journalists.

Reflecting on the do no harm principle and lessons on what did not work, Maida Muminovic, its Executive Director, noted:

“Careful attention to local context and being cautious with ideas to transpose effective solutions from something that works somewhere will not necessarily work in the countries where assistance is being given. We have a number of examples in terms of the laws that don't work, that are superb in the paper, but simply not adapted enough to the local context or the work of institutions. So, mere application and copying of solutions do not frequently work”.

In terms of what worked well, Maida emphasised the importance of investing in the education and capacitation of journalists and newsrooms, citing the BBC School of Journalism at Mediacentar Sarajevo as a successful example. Over nearly 30 years, this investment has proven crucial for fostering professionalism and good practices in journalism in the country.

Davor Glavas, Chief of Party of the USAID-funded Balkan Media Assistance Program (BMAP)-Forward and Internews Advisor for the Western Balkans, recounted his earlier involvement in preparing an analysis of ten years of donor support (1995-2005) for media projects in Croatia. This report, conducted when donor funds were drying up, examined 47 media projects that had received substantial international support. Surprisingly, only three of these projects survived two years after the donor community withdrew from Croatia. The common factors among the successful projects were that they existed before international donor involvement and enjoyed stable, long-term financial support from a consistent pool of donors, rather than relying on ad hoc funding.

Mark Nelson, former Senior Director at CIMA, highlighted the earlier challenging conversations within the OECD DAC regarding the inclusion of media in development discussions, eventually leading to a shift in perspective among donors. A report by the World Bank in 2012, for example, revealed disorganised and duplicated efforts in media development, prompting a push for collective donor responsibility and increased funding. In response to the question from the audience on scepticism regarding actual donor unity and engagement, he referred to the Principles and stated:

“This document is more of a process that we are outlining here that pushes the donors to live up to these kinds of commitments, and I realised that they have made many commitments that they did not keep. So it will be up to us to push for those commitments and to try to hold them accountable according to the things that they agreed in this document. But it's coming from a very long road of lacking coordination and coherence”.

Mira Milosevic highlighted the historical context of development assistance, noting its original focus on poverty alleviation and humanitarian aid rather than media support. She emphasised the structural limitations of development assistance in catering to the needs of the media sector, in spite of its evolving importance. Despite systemic constraints, the panellists underscored the significance of development assistance in funding impactful journalism, particularly investigative and cross-border reporting. Additionally, they discussed the broader applicability of media development principles to other sectors like anti-corruption and health, presenting new avenues for engagement with international financial institutions.

Lessons learned from media assistance in the Western Balkans:

• Local Ownership: Assistance must be rooted in local knowledge and expertise. International experts should trust and work with local professionals to ensure support and success.

• Engagement with Local Political Actors: Consider existing political power relations to prevent local powers from seizing control of media post-assistance.

• Donor Coordination: Early international assistance was ad hoc and uncoordinated. Different donors had varying focuses, leading to perceived competition and gaps.

• Consistency and Long-term Commitment: Projects need time to evaluate success; abrupt changes can lead to failure.

• Adaptation to Local Context: Effective solutions from one area may not work elsewhere. Laws and institutional solutions must be adapted to the local context.

• Importance of Thriving Economy: Media relies on a strong economy and market for advertising revenue. Diverse financing models are crucial, but a flourishing economy remains important for media sustainability.

Reflections on the OECD Principles: identified challenges and recommendations

Structure of the summary

To examine the OECD Principles in depth we invited six members and partners to share their experiences of both effective and ineffective practices, highlighting the benefits of aligning with the OECD Principles and the drawbacks of misalignment. Afterwards, participants were divided into five breakout groups to discuss themes identified as crucial for the media in the region under the framework of the OECD principles – how would main regional challenges improve if the principles were implemented and what would be the best modality to leverage the principles to adopt better practices of media assistance. For the purpose of this report, we summarised and grouped main points, identified challenges and recommendations from both presentations and group discussions and presented them under each of the OECD principles

Principle 1: Ensure that assistance does not harm public interest media

Principle 1: Ensure that assistance does not harm public interest media.

When discussing Principle 1, Maida Muminovic noted: “What I didn't see enough highlighted in this do-no-harm principle in relevance with the media systems is the importance of the economy as such. Media is part of the market that has to flourish so that companies and individuals have funds to spend on advertising. However, with diverse financing models in the media of today, this is still quite important. So, out of all processes that have to happen in parallel with media development, I would emphasise the importance of a thriving economy, a thriving market that can sustain business development”.

Davor Glavas also highlighted: “There are two principles that we should take into consideration when thinking about safeguarding Principle 1, doing no harm to independent media. And these principles are number one - localisation strategy and localisation approach, meaning giving the local actors the lead in all the processes that we are doing. Providing them tailor-made expertise, and tailor-made support, not one size fits all. Number two, not in order of importance - donor coordination”.

Identified challenges to implementation

Recommendations

Principle 2: Increase financial and other forms of support

Principle 2: Increase financial and other forms of support to public interest media and the information environment, in order to strengthen democratic resilience.

Evgenia Konovalova, Program Manager for Amplify Europe at the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF), described MDIF's mission to support independent media globally without interfering with editorial policies. Launched in 2022 with funding from the Dutch and German postcode lotteries, Amplify Europe focuses on enhancing the business sustainability of small and medium-sized independent digital media companies in Europe. Through needs assessments, mentoring, and innovation grants, Amplify Europe helps media companies improve their financial models, grow revenues, and diversify income streams. Konovalova highlighted successes in Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia, where participants saw significant growth in advertising and subscription revenue. She also mentioned Pluralis, MDIF's new fund for investing in successful European media companies to preserve editorial independence. Participants were particularly interested in the lottery funding.

Katerina Sinadinovska, editor of "Agenda 35" and co-founder of the Balkan Center For Constructive Policies in North Macedonia, discussed the distortion of the Macedonian media market during Nikola Gruevski's populist right-wing government, which funnelled millions of public funds into private media, creating an uneven playing field. Despite efforts by the Macedonian media community, this practice continued under subsequent administrations. Sinadinovska and her colleagues have proposed a media pluralism fund to support real media content like investigative journalism and educational programs, instead of directly funding media owners. She emphasised the crucial support from international donors, particularly for media associations, but stressed the need for quality media programs to counter disinformation and poor journalistic practices. She cautioned against relying on government support, which threatens media independence, and called for more direct assistance in developing strong media content.

Identified challenges to implementation

Recommendations

Principle 3: Take a whole of system perspective

Principle 3: Consider the media and information environment as a development sector in itself, a critical part of efforts to promote and protect democracy, human rights, gender equality and development as well as a sector which can support the implementation of other development goals.

Jodi Blankenship, Project Manager for Reporters Shield, highlighted the growing threat of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) targeting journalists. These lawsuits are designed to intimidate, financially drain, and silence journalists, leading to self-censorship and the avoidance of certain stories. Blankenship cited the case of Daphne Caruana Galizia, who faced numerous libel suits at the time of her assassination for her investigative work. She emphasised the importance of a whole-system perspective (Principle 3) to support the media environment, noting that Reporters Shield, in collaboration with various legal networks and supported by USAID, provides legal defence for investigative journalists worldwide. Unlike traditional media insurance, which is costly and limited, Reporters Shield operates as a nonprofit, offering a scalable mutual defence model that prioritises member benefits. This approach aims to reduce self-censorship and stress for journalists, increasing the number of public interest stories published.

A whole system perspective in any domain, including legal and technological frameworks, emphasises an integrated approach that considers all components and their interactions within the entire system. This approach not only necessitates robust legal protections to ensure ethical and fair practices but also leverages the latest technological innovations to optimise efficiency and effectiveness. In the break-out group discussion, the conversation predominantly centred around the technological challenges that hinder the adoption of a whole system perspective.

Identified challenges to implementation

Recommendations

Principle 4: Strengthen local leadership and ownership

Principle 4: Strengthen local leadership and ownership, empowering media partners as well as other actors in the information environment such as civil society organisations and online content creators to meaningfully participate in policies and programmes.

Milka Domanovic, Regional Director of the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN), emphasised the importance of localisation and strengthening local leadership in media assistance. She commended the efforts of GFMD and CIMA in facilitating these discussions and highlighted the need for the meaningful participation of local actors, ensuring media assistance is context-appropriate, and based on local demands and evidence. Domanovic stressed the necessity of long-term sustainable core support for media initiatives. Despite local familiarity and support, she noted that donor coordination needs improvement, particularly in conducting comprehensive needs assessments before project inception to align with local capacities and conditions. She concluded by advocating for trust in local expertise, better donor coordination, and flexibility throughout project planning and implementation phases.

Identified challenges to implementation

Recommendations

Principle 5: Improve coordination of support

Principle 5: Improve coordination of support to the media and information environment, both among donor agencies and between development and diplomatic efforts to support media freedom, especially in contexts of crisis.

Olga Myrovych, CEO of the Lviv Media Forum, emphasised the critical need for donor coordination, especially during crises like the war in Ukraine. She highlighted the success of the GFMD’s information-sharing efforts, which facilitated timely and effective media support in Ukraine, such as providing charging stations after infrastructure damage. However, Olga noted a reluctance among many donor organisations to share funding practices, which hampers broader coordination. The speaker advocated for more inclusive and comprehensive donor coordination, involving more stakeholders and addressing broader issues beyond avoiding program duplication. She called for transparent approaches, government involvement, and a focus on building a professional and influential media environment through cooperation and healthy competition.

Identified challenges to implementation

Recommendations

Principle 6: Invest in knowledge, research, and learning

Principle 6: Invest in knowledge, research, and learning

Jasna Kilalic, Deputy Democracy Officer, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, discussed the challenges faced by independent media, emphasising the threat to free speech posed by authoritarian leaders. She highlighted two USAID-funded programs: a bilateral media engagement activity in Bosnia and Herzegovina and a regional initiative covering five Western Balkan countries. These programs aim to enhance media outlets' operational capabilities, improve quality and reach, and foster collaboration and networking. Kilalic underscored the importance of knowledge, research, and learning in media development, citing examples of how these initiatives have helped media partners increase audience and revenue. She also mentioned the Balkan Media Assistance Program, which supports media competitiveness and resilience in the Western Balkans, including efforts to prevent media capture and promote innovative business models. Kilalic concluded by inviting continued support and engagement in the region from USAID and other partners.

Identified challenges to implementation

Recommendations

Co-organisers:

• Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)

• Centre for International Media Assistance (CIMA)

• Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) Media Development Working Group

• UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC)

Date: 4 May 2024

Time: 09:00 - 13:00 (UTC -3)

Venue: BiblioGAM (library), Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral, Centro Gabriela Mistral Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 227, Santiago, Chile.

Languages: Translation will be available in Spanish and English.

Participants: This meeting will bring together GFMD members and partners (donors, researchers and policymakers) across the Latin America and Caribbean region.

Related events: The meeting is organised as an official side event of UNESCO's World Press Freedom Day in Santiago, Chile from 2-4 May 2024.

Registration: In person registration

Discussions at the summit would be focused on the implementation of the recently adopted OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

Agenda

Date: 28 August, 15.00h - 16.30h CEST (GMT+2)

Location: Zoom Room - Registration Link available here.

Objective

The objective of this learning call, the first in a series on this topic, is to share experiences, best practices, and challenges faced in coordinating policy and advocacy work and working groups, specifically focusing on media freedom and public interest journalism. The call aims to enhance collaboration and strategic planning among different organisations and stakeholders involved in these advocacy efforts. We will review the impact and lessons learned from existing initiatives to discuss what is needed to create and sustain an advocacy and policy work and coordination groups, and explore how to stay updated on the initiatives we aim to address. We will also discuss improvements for existing groups and new opportunities, for example, in digital governance, to advocate for media freedom and public interest journalism from national arenas to international and global fora.

This learning call will be followed by a subsequent session with donors on September 6, to further discuss coordination and amplification of advocacy efforts (see the information here)

Why is GFMD organising this learning call?

By facilitating this discussion, GFMD aims to enhance collaboration and strategic planning among its members and stakeholders, ensuring their collective efforts are more effective and impactful. This call will also help review the impact of existing policy and advocacy groups, identify what is needed to create and sustain new groups, and explore opportunities to influence digital governance and other processes affecting media and journalism. Ultimately, the goal is to strengthen local and regional organisations to engage in national and international policy fora, advocating for media freedom and public interest journalism from national to global levels.

Questions for discussion

1. What upcoming policy and advocacy areas are you going to be focussing on for the next year?

   1. National level:

   2. Regional level (2 or more countries):

   3. Global level:

2. What would be a useful strategy to support you and other organisations with their advocacy and policy work and address challenges such as competing priorities, limited resources, and time constraints? Examples (would they work, :

   1. Shared platform(s) to share resources (how would that look like?)

   2. Recurring briefing sessions to exchange insights, updates and advocacy and policy tools.

   3. Engage donors to address the gaps identified and align funding with policy and advocacy priorities.

3. What strategies have you found most effective in coordinating advocacy and policy work with diverse stakeholders? How did you measure impact?

On May 4, 2024, at UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day Conference in Santiago, Chile, GFMD convened a Summit to discuss how to implement the OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Summit was co-organised with the Centre for International Media Assistance (CIMA), Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) Media Development Working Group and UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC).

The Summit united support for independent media and the information environment across Latin America and the Caribbean by uniting journalists and media support actors with donors and policymakers in brainstorming strategies for implementing the recently adopted OECD Principles in the region.

The summit began with introductory remarks given by Ambassador Raúl Fernandez Daza, Chairperson of the IPDC, Permanent Delegate of Chile to UNESCO and Ambassador to France, who contextualised the importance of media and information within the larger global community.

“The UNESCO member states, in 2021, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting information as a public good, endorsing the principles established in the Windhoek Declaration. (...) This is fundamental for the fulfilment of collective human aspirations, including the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda.” - Raúl Fernandez

Using the OECD Principles as a catalyst for change

Discussions at the summit kicked off with a conversation moderated by Laura Becana Ball, GFMD’s Policy and Advocacy Manager, on using the OECD Principles as a catalyst for change towards improved media development and sustainability, featuring Nick Benequista, Senior Director at CIMA, and Jaime Abello Banfi, Director General of the Gabo Foundation.

In his remarks, Benequista explored the impact of digital transformation on media practices and audience engagement. He emphasised the need for media organisations to embrace technological advances to remain relevant and expand their reach. To enable a free press, he underlined the need for a comprehensive approach to media assistance: funding, capacity building, legal support, and an enabling environment where journalists can operate without fear or favour. He also stressed the importance of understanding the broader ecosystem in which media organisations function, encompassing political, economic, and social factors.

Abello Banfi highlighted the vital role of independent media, emphasising that it must be safeguarded through constant support and regional cooperation. He shared insightful case studies showcasing how long-term funding and international partnerships have helped media outlets resist political and economic pressures.

"To preserve independent media, we must create permanent support mechanisms and coalitions that bring together a variety of stakeholders, from civil society to the private sector. These coalitions will create a supportive environment for media organisations to operate free from undue influence, with the necessary resources for investigative journalism and public interest reporting." - Jaime Abello, Director General of the Gabo Foundation

Both presentations emphasised the need for adaptability, innovation, and long-term strategies to protect independent media, foster an enabling environment for investigative journalism, and secure a thriving media ecosystem.

Reflections on the OECD Principles: Identified challenges and recommendations

Following this introduction, participants were divided into six breakout groups structured around the six Principles. The discussions sought to foster dialogue on innovative solutions to the urgent challenges facing independent media in Latin America and the Caribbean, aiming to strengthen journalist safety and media sustainability throughout the region.

The following summary highlights the key points and recommended actions that emerged from these discussions.

Principle 1: Ensure that assistance does no harm to public interest media

Principle 1: Ensure that assistance does not harm public interest media.

Laura Barros emphasised that donors often compel media organisations to align with their own objectives, which can undermine journalistic integrity. She highlighted the European model of non-profit public interest media and stressed that this concept should guide media organisations in defining their role and signalling their contributions to audiences. She called for ongoing and sustained cooperation among media organisations, governments, and civil society in Latin America to strengthen journalistic integrity and independence, acknowledging the region's challenges, including the popular support for authoritarian regimes.

Jaime Abello, from Fundación Gabo, advocated for using the term "public interest journalism" (instead of public interest media) to better reflect regional realities and promote the adoption of journalistic practices that prioritise the public good among journalists and audiences. He highlighted the diverse landscape of media, including digital, traditional, local, community, citizen-based, and exiled journalism, stressing the importance of a regional, long-term vision for media support that transcends cycles and includes all countries. Abello also called for a support ecosystem that recognises individual leadership and provides incentives and recognition for journalists.

Emma García Prieto, from USAID El Salvador, noted that donors have specific agendas and objectives, which can sometimes lead to unintended harm despite good intentions. She described the shift in Central America, where media previously reliant on government advertising are now adapting to new realities by becoming more open to cooperation and emphasised the need for due diligence and accountability in donor cooperation, envisioning a future where existing media can survive through collaboration.

Jazmín Acuña, from El Surtidor, emphasised the responsibility of donors in having a clear exit strategy from countries where they operate and in being careful with communication and visibility regarding their support.

“Donors have their own objectives, and this often forces the media to adapt to these goals. We must strive to prevent this from happening. We agree that public interest journalism is better suited to our context. There is a need to bring this concept to a more regional level and also to the audiences (...) There are countries that are not considered priorities for cooperation, and this must also be taken into account.” - Jazmín Acuña

Identified challenges to the implementation

Recommendations

Principle 2: Increase financial and other forms of support

Principle 2: Increase financial and other forms of support to public interest media and the information environment, in order to strengthen democratic resilience.

Maria Vitória Ramos, co-founder of Fiquem Sabendo, underscored the vital nexus between transparency, freedom of expression, and institutional funding. She emphasised the impact of institutional funding in preventing the misuse of government funds and advancing transparency initiatives within Latin America's media landscape. Drawing on Brazil's experiences, she highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by media entities and stressed the significance of dedication and passion in overcoming these obstacles, advocating for comprehensive investments in technology and resilience-building across the media sector to ensure sustainability and adaptability in a rapidly evolving digital age.

The discussion that followed underscored the urgency of increasing financial, technical, and logistical support for public interest media amid rising threats to communication and information, such as censorship, disinformation, and political pressure.

Identified challenges to the implementation

“Media is often understood in other areas as a tool for empowerment, but it is important to support independent media without undermining it. (...) Transparency around the existing mechanisms is needed to facilitate the marketplace for smaller organisations that are trying to gain entry.” - Carla Egydio, Ajor.

Recommendations

Principle 3: Take a whole of system perspective

Principle 3: Consider the media and information environment as a development sector in itself, a critical part of efforts to promote and protect democracy, human rights, gender equality and development as well as a sector which can support the implementation of other development goals.

Laura Agosta, from IREX, emphasised IREX´s work on information ecosystems, focusing on the crucial principle of adopting a systemic and holistic perspective. She highlighted several key points, including collaborative efforts with regional organisations to produce actionable reports and analyses and stressed the necessity of supporting both short and long-term media development initiatives to ensure media resilience and security, which are fundamental for future sustainability. She also discussed the role of rapid assistance and growth labs in delivering scalable support to media organisations, underscoring their importance in fostering innovation and sustainability in the media sector.

In the discussion that followed, participants emphasised the need for a holistic approach to supporting the media environment sustainably, envisioning journalism that serves the public interest, is free from economic pressures, and is capable of paying fair wages. Achieving this requires coalition building and political alliances to change economic structures and incentives. Donors and international assistance should provide forums, workshops, and collaborative networks for media to address challenges and find solutions. Additionally, they should establish mechanisms such as public awareness campaigns, community engagement initiatives, and feedback systems to maintain and enhance societal support, recognising journalism as a public good for all demographics.

Identified challenges to the implementation

Recommendations

Principle 4: Strengthen local leadership and ownership

Principle 4: Strengthen local leadership and ownership, empowering media partners as well as other actors in the information environment such as civil society organisations and online content creators to meaningfully participate in policies and programmes.

Isabela Ponce, from GK, highlighted the urgency of reevaluating global funding mechanisms to better address the distinct challenges faced by countries in crisis, using Ecuador as a pertinent example. She critiqued existing funding frameworks for their failure to sufficiently adapt to the nuanced circumstances of individual states. She advocated for a more direct engagement with media organisations in these countries, emphasising the need for tailored financial support strategies that can enhance the quality and impact of journalism. Her remarks underscored the importance of prioritising effective and targeted assistance to bolster media resilience and efficacy in challenging environments.

Arturo Wallace, from BBC Media Action, highlighted that donor countries should adopt principles that allow for more flexibility and decision-making power at the local level, suggesting that this would lead to more sustainable media operations focusing on community interests rather than donor agendas.

“If we talk about public interest in journalism, it must respond to the interest of local communities and not to much more global agendas. We believe it is essential to highlight that in local contexts people can get information that is relevant” - Arturo Wallace

Eugenia Olán, from Revista La Brújula, noted that as a feminist media organisation, they often face stigmatisation and funding challenges due to the sensitive topics they cover, such as women's issues and reproductive rights. They emphasised the need for funding that supports diverse topics while meeting grant requirements, not just those prioritised by donors.

René Linares, from ARPAS, discussed the difficulties that nonprofit media face in accessing funds, as journalism and communication are often small parts of larger projects and most funding is allocated to broader projects rather than specific media initiatives. He noted the decline in advertising revenue post-pandemic and the need for projects that guarantee the public’s right to communicate and receive information freely.

Some participants highlighted regional disparities in funding and training for regional news media organisations, for example, in El Salvador, where most resources were concentrated in San Salvador, leaving other regions with limited support. Others emphasised the need for inclusive capacity-building and financial support. They highlighted Brazil’s efforts to expand public communication networks through partnerships between the government and universities as an example of successful collaboration. Strengthening leadership by empowering communicators, beyond financial and technological support, was seen as crucial.

Identified challenges to the implementation

Recommendations

Principle 5: Improve coordination of support

Principle 5: Improve coordination of support to the media and information environment, both among donor agencies and between development and diplomatic efforts to support media freedom, especially in contexts of crisis.

In the context of democratic backsliding such as in El Salvador, where the media faces threats, censorship, and a general decline in human rights - participants emphasised the importance of coordination between development initiatives focused on economic growth, social progress, and sustainable development, and diplomatic efforts to address regional challenges effectively. Existing efforts in El Salvador include short and long-term approaches to journalist safety, involving collaboration with journalist networks. IREX, primarily through its SAFE project, has been conducting safety training in El Salvador for years.

Derek Thorne, from MFC, outlined a three-step coordination process: internal coordination to ensure projects complement each other, looking out to see what other donors are there, and engaging in diplomatic-level coordination.

A representative from the German Foreign Office noted that coordination starts within the Ministry and extends to other donors and embassies to ensure comprehensive support for media projects.

Drusilla Menaker, from USAID/Washington, highlighted the challenge of identifying who drives coordination at the country level, suggesting it often falls to implementing partners rather than donors. This dynamic can lead to challenges such as conflicting priorities among different implementing partners, delays in decision-making processes, and difficulties in aligning strategies across multiple stakeholders.

Elena Koehler, from DW Akademie, pointed out opportunities for better alignment with broader international development initiatives, such as leveraging existing networks and partnerships, aligning goals with global sustainable development agendas (like the SDGs), and integrating media development efforts with broader governance and transparency initiatives.

Milica Pesic, from the Media Diversity Institute, cited successful donor coordination following the Arab Spring in Tunisia, where donors met weekly with implementers. However, she noted the lack of coordination between embassies and foreign ministries in other contexts. She also emphasised the need to involve niche organisations in coordination efforts to leverage specialised expertise.

The discussion explored government engagement in civil society-led coordination efforts, with participants agreeing that examples from countries like Ukraine show potential for effective collaboration. IFEX suggested using embassy networks for issue-specific coordination, though resource limitations within embassies are a common obstacle. Improved coordination could be achieved by mapping actors in each country. Participants emphasised that coordination should involve dialogue among diplomacy, development, and civil society actors, not just around funding. Effective facilitation requires general guidelines rather than complex bureaucratic systems, drawing on experiences from organisations like the OECD.

Identified challenges to the implementation

Recommendations

Principle 6: Invest in knowledge, research, and learning

Principle 6: Invest in knowledge, research, and learning

Participants underscored the need for forging alliances among media organisations, journalists, universities, and relevant stakeholders at national and international levels. These partnerships are essential for fostering collaborative initiatives and leveraging collective expertise and resources for sustainable media development.

Discussions emphasised the importance of conducting comprehensive stakeholder mapping exercises to identify actors and their respective roles in the media landscape. Horizontal collaboration, initiated from grassroots levels, emerged as a potent strategy for fostering synergies and maximising the impact of interventions across various media sectors.

Gender mainstreaming and promoting social inclusivity within media organisations emerged as critical considerations, emphasising the need for creating inclusive media environments that reflect diverse perspectives and address societal inequalities through informed and equitable media coverage.

"It is important to invest in training that is flexible, innovative, and applicable to understand the contexts in which journalists live. We have even discussed hybrid systems, but it is also crucial to include the perspective of gender and social inclusion. We must work to counteract the digital divide and understand all types of contexts." - Omar Rabago, Internews.

Identified challenges to the implementation

Recommendations

Organisers: Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) and UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC)

Partners: International Press Institute (IPI), Organised Crime and Corruption project (OCCRP), Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN).

Date: 24 May 2024

Time: 14:00 - 18:30 (CET)

Venue: Hotel Holiday, Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina (BiH)

Registration: To join the meeting in person, please fill in this form. To join the meeting online, please register here.

Participants: This meeting will bring together GFMD members and partners (donors, researchers and policymakers) who are active across the wider European region.

This meeting will follow the conclusion of the IPI World Congress and Media Innovation Festival that is taking place in Sarajevo from May 22nd to May 24th, 2024.

Learn more about the Mapping of media assistance and journalism support programmes in the Western Balkans region.

Find the full meeting report here:

Find the agenda for the meeting here:

Find the review of relevant literature and mapping documents here:

Objectives

The meeting will reinvigorate support for independent media and the information environment across the wider European region by uniting journalists and media support actors with donors and policymakers in brainstorming strategies for implementing the recently adopted OECD Development Cooperation Principles for Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

The Principles are the successful culmination of more than two years of consultations and advocacy led by GFMD and the Centre for International Media Assistance (CIMA) in collaboration with bilateral donor agencies (including Sweden, Switzerland, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States), intergovernmental institutions (including the Media Freedom Coalition, through its Media Development Working Group and UNESCO’s IPDC), implementing organisations, civil society representatives, and media development experts.

IPI World Congress registration

PRIMED sought to address the challenges to public interest media at both outlet and environment level, working with selected media outlets to increase resilience to political and economic pressures while also supporting the development of information ecosystems that enable a better flow of trusted public interest media content, with gender equality and inclusion integrated across the programme.

To create and share learning about effective media support in different contexts, PRIMED also used the insights and data gained during its implementation phase to prepare this series of learning briefs.

These attempt to answer key learning questions in relation to independent media and media support:

• The financial viability of media organisations (led by MDIF)

• The effectiveness of public subsidies to public interest media (led by BBC Media Action)

• Improving gender equality in media workplaces, content and audiences (led by FPU)

• The role of local coalitions in strengthening media ecosystems (led by IMS)

At the end of the three-year initiative, PRIMED consortium partners aim to share key learnings from the programme with the broader community.

Learn more about the workshops:

To find the full list of speakers, please visit this page:

Format: online

Date: Thursday 8 February 2024

Time: 11 AM -1 PM CET

Please visit the following pages to learn more about the workshop:

To find the meeting agenda, please visit this page:

SESSION 1: Survey findings on cloud and data processing services for newsrooms

Contributions from:

SESSION 2- Market and trends analysis of cloud and AI services and what this means for journalism

Contributions from:

• Alix Nguyen, Independent Consultant, Big Local News (Joining online)

SESSION 3- Scope and Role of the Alliance

Moderators: Cheryl Phillips, Founder and Co-Director, Big Local News and Paul Radu, Co-founder, Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)

SESSION 4- Connecting with other relevant stakeholders and initiatives

Moderator: Emilia Díaz-Struck, Executive Director, GIJN

Contributions from:

Organisers: Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) and Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)

Date: 17 April 2024

Time: 12:00 - 18:00 (CET)

Venue: Hotel Giò, Perugia

Format: Hybrid (in-person and online)

Artificial intelligence’s (AI) ability to process vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and generate data analysis has opened new frontiers for journalism in general, but the impact is especially relevant for data and investigative journalism organisations and networks in particular. In a bid to navigate the evolving tech landscape, the inaugural meeting of the Journalism Cloud Alliance brought together stakeholders from across the sector. Hosted by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) and the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), the gathering aimed to analyse the market and address the rising costs and constraints of cloud computing, while also developing collaborative solutions to help watchdog journalism fulfil its public service role.

Participants concluded by outlining concrete steps for taking this initiative forward. Proposals included conducting detailed research on cloud capacity and costs for both current and potential members of the Alliance, as well as expanding membership to build a robust coalition that can secure long-term financial and technical support for journalism costs. Additionally, participants discussed engaging in collective bargaining to negotiate lower costs for cloud services. These initiatives underscore the group’s commitment to leveraging collective bargaining power to unlock significant cost savings and enhance accessibility for journalism and media organisations of all sizes.

Learn more about the meeting:

Kate Wright, Martin Scott, and Mel Bunce

This book is not yet published but is estimated to be published on 22nd October 2024.

• Features previously unpublished interviews with network managers and journalists at Voice of America

• Uses internal documents and private correspondence acquired via Freedom of Information requests

• Builds a new theory about the government capture of public media and its relationship to democratic backsliding

International Media Support (IMS)

The overall objective of the assignment was to map out and assess media coalitions in east, west and southern Africa, to contribute to the IMS Media Coalitions for Change (MC4C) project.

The assessment specifically aims to understand the development of innovative coalition approaches, systems and models that can strengthen the role of the media in democratisation in Africa, especially in collaboration with IMS partners and the networks and coalitions they are part of, and explore how coalition-building can contribute to media freedom through work in three distinct though related areas

Global Forum for Media Development and Internews Europe

Media Matters draws together thinking and analysis that covers the breadth and depth of the media development landscape. The opening section, ‘Why Media Matters: Global Perspectives’ gathers the work of several thought leaders on major trends that cut across both the communications and development policy arenas; this is followed by an examination of the current debate that is engaging researchers, development professionals and media assistance experts alike, namely ‘How Media Matters: Measuring its Impact’. The third section, ‘Challenges in Media Matters: Practitioner Experiences’ presents a range of regional and sectoral case studies, and the final section forms a guide to cur- rent information sources and studies of the field of media support, in ‘Mapping the Sector - Literature, Surveys and Resources’.

DW Akademie - Steffen Leidel & Dennis Reineck

Disinformation is for the information ecosystem what pollution is for nature. It upsets the existing equilibrium, harms organisms and prevents the overall system from functioning to the benefit of everyone. Thus, it may seem that any activity that combats disinformation has merit, because it helps to prevent it or even eradicate it. This paper presents a novel approach to the challenges associated with disinformation. It diagnoses a tendency towards stand-alone solutionism in most current media development strategies in this realm.

Internews - ​​Dr Isabelle Schläpfer​ and Rosie Parkyn

Internews’ new report documents the issues exiled media face and how governments, donors, and others can support these outlets to continue their vital work. The report, Flight and Fight: Supporting Exiled Media to Survive and Sustain is based on interviews with 25 exiled media outlets from 17 countries, including Cuba, Syria, Sudan, Russia, and China.

Thomson Foundation and Media and Journalism Research Center

This paper explores the nuanced integration of AI in newsrooms across the V4 countries—Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia. It highlights the substantial benefits of AI for efficiency and data management, especially for small and independent media outlets. Despite slow and cautious adoption, there is growing recognition of AI’s potential, particularly for automating repetitive tasks, allowing journalists to focus on critical topics. The research underscores the ethical concerns and need for transparency, reflecting a balance between technological advancements and journalistic integrity. It also contrasts V4 practices with global standards, noting the disparity in ethical guidelines and transparency efforts. The findings suggest that while AI offers significant opportunities, careful management is essential to uphold democratic values and foster regional collaboration.

International Fund for Public Interest Media - Nishant Lalwani and James Deane

The first was to mobilise money in the context of the looming threat of media extinction as the business model for independent media collapsed. The challenge was most acute in low- and middle-income countries.

The second was to provide a solution to donors – those with money – who wanted to support independent media but did not have the capacity, legitimacy or risk appetite to do so at the scale they felt was warranted.

The report is the most detailed mapping study of official international donor support to media and broader issues of “information integrity” ever undertaken. It makes for stark reading.

Nick Benequista (Center for International Media Assistance), Laure-Hélène Piron (The Policy Practice), and Cristina Ordóñez (Trust, Accountability and Inclusion Collaborative)

Lies spread six times faster than truth online. That’s a pretty alarming figure, but perhaps not as concerning as the amount of time it has taken the international development community to act in response to the world’s growing information crisis.

Misleading information, rumours, and lies – which caused a profound human toll during the global pandemic – look set to be turbocharged by artificial intelligence. At the same time, the collapse of traditional advertising markets has left independent media vulnerable to capture and suppression by illiberal political interests.

DAC Network on Governance

In a global context of autocratisation, censorship of the media is increasing, more journalists are being harassed, and freedom of expression is deteriorating across the world. While global technology platforms have improved access to information for billions of people, they also facilitate disinformation and misinformation campaigns and weaken the economic viability of print media, TV and radio stations. When used effectively, official development assistance (ODA) can help defend and promote public interest media, and the integrity of the information environment more generally.

The OECD DAC Governance Network (GovNet) commissioned this study to improve GovNet members’ responses to these mounting challenges. It involves a quantitative analysis of development partners’ funding reported to the DAC between 2002 and 2021, as well as a qualitative review of development partners’ policies and practices and four case studies of media assistance provided since 2016 to Ukraine and the Western Balkans, Myanmar, Tanzania and global programmes.

Cristina Ordóñez - Trust, Accountability, and Inclusion (TAI) Collaborative

TAI is a collaborative of donors whose priorities include supporting evolution and sustainability of a healthy information ecosystem. Given our coordination role, it is important for TAI to understand the funding trends, determine the current distribution of grantmaking, and identify gaps that might merit more support.

This mapping complements the analysis performed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) DAC Governance Network (GovNet), who undertook a parallel review of Official Development Assistance (ODA) flows related to the information ecosystem as reported to (OECD). Therefore, the focus of our analysis is the philanthropic funding directed to aid recipient countries, which will allow us to compare it with the ODA flows to better understand the difference in scale between governmental and philanthropic funding to support information ecosystems. Additionally, it will further inform our understanding of where the lion’s share of funds is going and where there are significant gaps.

Center for International Media Assistance - Mary Myers and Heather Gilberds

This study has two components. First, an analysis of development finance data collected annually by the OECD DAC between 2010 and 2019 sheds light on the amount and nature of ODA allocated to media development and how that has changed over time. Second, in-depth interviews were conducted with several of the donor agencies that allocate the largest amounts of funding to media assistance and major international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) that implement media support programs. These interviews were supplemented with a review of available reports from these organizations, including research reports, program evaluations, and financial information.

Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism

This year's report reveals new findings about the consumption of online news globally. It is based on a YouGov survey of more than 95,000 people in 47 countries representing half of the world's population. The report looks at the growing importance of platforms in news consumption and production, including more visual and video-led social media such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. It explores audience attitudes towards the use of AI in news, the role of creators and news influencers, how much people pay for news and more.

Resources - Supporting Independent Media in Exile (2023)

International Forum for Democratic Studies and the Center for International Media Assistance (Compiled by Logan Richman)

This compilation provides a comprehensive overview of resources dedicated to supporting independent media in exile. It includes a carefully curated selection of organisations, funding opportunities, and research.

Compiled by Christoph Dietz, Catholic Media Council (CAMECO)

This compilation of open access publications published in 2022 offers a curated selection of essential resources in media development. Highlighting particularly commendable guides, handbooks, and remarkable works—shaded in grey—this collection serves as a valuable reference for media professionals, scholars, and practitioners.

UNESCO

Global Media Philanthropy: What Funders Need to Know About Data, Trends and Pressing Issues Facing the Field (2019)

Democracy Fund/Media Impact Funders - SARAH ARMOUR-JONES AND JESSICA CLARK

Centre for International Media Assistance - MARY MYERS & LINET ANGAYA JUMA

KEY FINDINGS

When donors provide assistance to the media sector, they frequently back projects that aim to strengthen the media’s contribution to good governance in some way or another. This kind of funding is consistent with recent declarations made by the international community on the importance of protecting independent media for the sake of democracy and development. Yet, in the bigger picture, donors still only commit a tiny fraction to this sector and appear to be responding slowly, if at all, to the unique challenges of press freedom in the digital age.

• Media assistance represented on average just .3 percent of total official development aid (ODA) between 2010 and 2015.

• Donor flows to media are small, but are holding steady.

• China is an increasingly active player in terms of global media aid flows, although its interventions are largely focused on developing infrastructure and take the form of loans rather than development grants.

Development Agenda: Considering the Dark Side of the Media (2015)

DW Akademie - JAN LUBLINSKI, SACHA MEUTER & MARK NELSON

This report describes different phenomena of what the authors from DW Akademie, Fondation Hirondelle, and CIMA call the dark side of the media, and it looks at how the dark side interacts in a dynamic way with other features of the governance environment. It analyses societal dynamics and points out implications for media development.

This CIMA report examines the benefits and challenges of measuring audiences for news media and media development practitioners.

Audience measurements, with their resulting influence on content and commercialization, are essential components of financially viable media and media markets. They help create marketplaces where diverse media can compete in viable niches, offer audience insights and thus increase the likelihood that media organizations will produce relevant content, and play an essential role in reducing corruption by exposing it. From a media development perspective, audience measurements reveal whether people are engaging with the content that news media produce. Although it has become essential for media organizations to have core strengths in understanding their audiences, building capacity for measuring audiences is seldom included in media development initiatives.

BBC Media Action

United States Institute of Peace - AMELIA ARSENAULT, SHELDON HIMEFARB & SUSAN ABBOTT

The Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Penn - sylvania, Fondation Hirondelle, Internews Network, the United States Broadcasting Board of Governors, and the Center of Innovation for Media, Conflict, and Peacebuilding at the United States Institute of Peace commissioned this report following a five-day multistakeholder meeting of donors, implementers, and academics on how to better evaluate media’s impact in ameliorating conflict, at the Caux Conference Center in Switzerland. The report both reviews the state of the art in evaluating media interventions in conflict and outlines the Caux Guiding Principles (hereinafter, Caux Principles) for improving the evaluation process. It stresses effective evaluation as a critical step forward for using the media in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

EUROPE

Media and Journalism Research Center - Nikolas Schäfer & Marius Dragomir

The Mapping of EU Spending on Media Project, initiated by the Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC) in 2023, endeavors to tackle this complex question (how does EU funding contribute to the evolution of the European news media landscape?) through interviews with EU grantees as well as empirical research anchored in data on the specific areas where EU funds have been allocated.

The current study provides an overview of the first phase of the project, which focused on collecting data to better understand the allocation of EU funding for media-related activities. It examines the financial support provided by the EU over the period 2018-2024, including statistics on the amount of funding allocated, the topics and themes covered by the grants, the average grant size, the distribution of funds among recipient countries, the EU bodies responsible for disbursing the finances, target countries and type of activities most funded.

The primary objective of this initial study is not to evaluate funding decisions or analyse the strategies behind fund allocation. Instead, its purpose is to provide a description of how EU funding is distributed to media-related projects. The empirical data collected for this study will serve as the foundation for the next phase of the project, which will focus on assessing the impact of financial support in each specific area and in a series of case studies of EU-funded programs.

European Centre for Press & Media Freedom

In Spring 2024, a delegation from the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) conducted a press freedom fact-finding mission to Tbilisi, Georgia as part of a project funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Throughout the mission, ECPMF met with Georgian journalists and media workers, journalists working in exile in Tbilisi, NGOs, activists, political figures, the National Communications Commission, and the office of the Public Defender (Ombudsman) of Georgia.

Journalism Funders Forum confidential (2019-2020)

Blueprints for better collaboration between journalists and donors (2018)

European Journalism Centre - ADAM THOMAS

Philanthropic journalism funding in the UK, Germany and France (2017)

Journalism Funders Forum - EUROPEAN JOURNALISM CENTRE

These three separate reports each provide a descriptive overview of the landscape of Philanthropic journalism funding in three European countries. They include a map of the key funders, examples of current funding and recommendations for future funding.

Philanthropy and the Media (2017)

ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

NORTH AMERICA

Supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Journalism: Trends in National Grantmaking (2018)

Media Impact Funders - KATIE DONNELLY AND JESSICA CLARK

The aim of this report is to map philanthropic interventions that support diversity, equity, and inclusion in journalism from 2009 – 2015. It draws on data from Media Impact Funders.

Funding the News: U.S. Foundations and Non-profit Media (2018)

Shorenstein Center - MATTHEW NISBET, JOHN WIHBEY, SILJE KRISTIANSEN & ALESZU BAJAK

The Lear Centre - Media Impact Project - PHILIP M. NAPOLI

The goal of this report is to provide a comprehensive overview and assessment of the approaches being employed in this formative period of assessing media impact, with a focus on what is termed here a social value perspective. Social value in this context refers to analytical approaches that extend beyond financial measures of success to take into account criteria such as improving the well-being of individuals and communities across a wide range of dimensions that are central goals of most public interest media initiatives. This report seeks to identify relevant analytical approaches, methodologies, and metrics for assessing media impact in an effort to develop a baseline inventory of analytical tools, methods, and metrics that can inform further work in this area; and to identify approaches that appear particularly promising.

Experimentation and Evolution in Private U.S. Funding of Media Development (2009)

The Center for International Media Assistance (CIMA) - ANNE NELSON

OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment

The Principles seek to reinvigorate international support to media and the information environment, uniting the vital role of media and journalism in development and democracy, the severity of the crises facing public interest media and information integrity, emerging initiatives to improve innovation and coordination, and growing understanding of aid and development effectiveness and the impact of assistance.

What are the six Principles?

The six Principles aspire to encourage development cooperation providers to improve the relevance and effectiveness of their support to preserve, protect, and promote public interest media and information integrity in the following ways:

1. Ensure that assistance does no harm to public interest media.

2. Increase financial and other forms of support.

3. Take a whole-of-system perspective.

4. Strengthen local leadership and ownership.

5. Improve coordination of support.

6. Invest in knowledge, research, and learning.

Business Models

EU Commission

Authored by: Miroslav Tomić, Mihailo Gajić and Ardiana Gashi

Language: English

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of donor support to civil society in the Western Balkans highlighting the challenges faced by civil society organizations (CSOs) such as shrinking civic space and foreign donor dependence. It emphasizes the need for improved donor coordination and support for digital transformation in CSOs. Despite limitations in data collection the report underscores the importance of increasing grantmaking to domestic CSOs and reducing funding for governments that restrict civil society. The findings suggest a need for new funding mechanisms for CSOs given the current trends in corporate giving and the withdrawal of key international private foundations from the region.

Censorship & Media Regulation

SEENPM

Authored by: Nedim Sejdinović

Language: English

Document Type: Report

Research on the situation and problems of media self-regulation in the Western Balkan countries and Turkey leads unequivocally to the conclusion that self-regulation can significantly improve the media and the media system only in countries where there is already a relatively high and stable level of media freedom and in general public accountability. this regional overview (factsheet) we summarize findings of the country research reports on media self-regulation in Albania BiH Kosovo Montenegro North Macedonia Serbia and Turkey.

South East European Network for Professionalization of Media

Authored by: Ilda Londo

Language: English

Media self-regulation in Albania has faced challenges with effectiveness not always meeting expectations. Despite ongoing efforts and some positive examples there is no clear success story for self-regulation. Issues such as lack of transparency in media ownership competition pressure and declining concern for professional standards pose challenges. Existing codes of conduct provide a basis for ethical conduct but they are not extensively developed or applied especially in online media. The future sustainability and effectiveness of self-regulatory initiatives remain uncertain. Co-regulation is encouraged but its implementation is uncertain. The need for self-regulation in online media is urgent due to rules imposed by social networks. Business interests and market pressures hinder newsrooms' efforts to promote ethical conduct. Low public trust in institutions to demand media accountability and the need to enhance media and information literacy to strengthen positive pressure on media for self-regulation are also highlighted.

SEENPM

Authored by: Anida Sokol

Language: English and Bosnian

Document Type: Report

This report focuses on the question of how to strengthen self-regulatory mechanisms and increase the responsibility of journalists and editors for media content in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

SEENPM

Authored by: Florent Spahija

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report is primarily focused on the role of the Press Council of Kosovo and on the Code of Ethics of the Print and Online Media but it also gives an overview of the regulatory framework in Kosovo including the work of the Independent Media Commission.

SEENPM

Authored by: Milica Bogdanović

Language: English and Montenegrin

Document Type: Report

The report reviews the content of ethics documents and examines the need to improve the Journalistic Code of Montenegro in light of the challenges in the digital environment faced by the media. In addition, the report aims at determining the structure and functioning of self-regulatory bodies in Montenegro and examine whether these mechanisms can adequately contribute to the fight against hate speech propaganda and misinformation.

SEENPM

Authored by: Marina Tuneva and Vesna Nikodinoska

Language: English and Macedonian

Document Type: Report

This analysis explores the capacity of self-regulatory mechanisms to promote ethical standards and to effectively respond to growing challenges especially in the digital environment as well as to promote media literacy.

SEENPM

Authored by: Milica Janjatović Jovanović

Language: English and Serbian

Document Type: Report

The general regulatory framework for media in Serbia is divided into two highly polarised branches – regulation and self-regulation. The findings of this research show that the regulatory body which has the capacity and authority to conduct regular monitoring and impose penalties on unprofessional media does not utilise these powers. At the same time decisions made by the self-regulatory body which conducts regular monitoring and records violations of the Serbian Journalists’ Code of Ethics are not binding and a large number of print and online media in Serbia do not adhere to them. The biggest challenges faced by the Press Council are project funding sources and threats to the members of the Complaints Commission. As a recommendation of this research an additional funding model for the Press Council was defined where funds would come from membership fees from all media outlets that recognise the Council’s jurisdiction.

Civil Rights Defenders

Authored by: Elida Jata, Kejsi Gaxha and Renis Meta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Policy Paper

The purpose of this policy paper is to highlight different policy options of online media regulation and their possible impact on the freedom of the media in Albania and on its EU integration process. Moreover this paper aims to highlight the importance of the freedom of speech in the light of Albania’s EU accession process.

Media Council for Self-Regulation (MSS)

Language: English and Montenegrin

Document Type: Guidelines

The guidelines encompass among others an analysis of the local and international legislative framework addressing journalistic due diligence the solutions and mechanisms of the EU Members States and the Council of Europe Members States regarding the issue and the examples from the practice of each of the self-regulatory mechanisms conducting the research. Drawing on the research the working group gathered concrete recommendations for journalists regarding how to act with journalistic due diligence.

UNESCO

Language: English

Document Type: Guide

Council of Europe

Authored by: Jean-François Furnémont § Tanja Kerševan Smokvina

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This study commissioned by the Council of Europe at the request of Serbia's Regulatory Authority of Electronic Media (REM) aims to analyse European best practices in self- and co-regulation and provide recommendations for implementing such schemes in Serbia. The study authored by Jean-François Furnémont and Tanja Kerševan Smokvina covers various aspects including policy background key concepts traditional areas of implementation conditions for effectiveness case studies from EU countries and recommendations for Serbia. It concludes that while there is no typical European model of co-regulation Serbia could consider implementing such systems in areas like the protection of minors and basic professional standards in media. However any implementation should guard against political interference and ensure public and industry endorsement.

Council of Europe

Authored by: Jean-François Furnémont

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This study commissioned by the Council of Europe at the request of Macedonia's media regulatory authority (Agency for Audio and Audiovisual Media Services - AAAMS) has two main objectives. Firstly to analyse if audiovisual media regulation in the EU goes beyond its normal scope and if so how it affects media outlets falling under this extended scope. Secondly to provide recommendations for potential amendments to Macedonia's regulatory framework based on practices in the EU Council of Europe standards and existing definitions in Macedonian law. The study examines definitions of terms like "online media" and "website" used in EU laws as well as terms such as "electronic publication" and "internet portal" in Macedonian laws. It also discusses concerns raised by international organizations and NGOs about potential overregulation of media in Macedonia leading to the adoption of separate laws for different types of media in 2013 and amendments in 2014 to exclude "electronic publications" from regulation. The study highlights a debate about the scope of media regulation resurfacing in 2016 with the Electoral Code which imposes obligations on audiovisual media service providers and "internet portals" regarding election campaign coverage. The AAAMS expressed difficulties in fulfilling these obligations due to the lack of clear definitions for "internet portals.

BIRN

Authored by: Adela Halo, Dorarta Hyseni, Dorian Matlija, Theodoros Alexandridis

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report provides a comprehensive overview of self-censorship in the Albanian media exploring its roots causes and manifestations based on the perspectives of media professionals. It aims to raise awareness about self-censorship's impact on freedom of expression and the quality of journalism offering recommendations to combat it. The study uses a mixed methodology including a review of international literature existing studies on self-censorship in Albania questionnaires completed by 121 journalists and editors and in-depth interviews with 22 media professionals. The findings highlight external and internal pressures influencing self-censorship challenges faced by media professionals and the pervasiveness of self-censorship in the Albanian media. Despite positive developments in the media landscape such as pluralism and legal improvements self-censorship remains a significant issue driven by political and economic pressures financial constraints and lack of professionalism. The report concludes with recommendations to address these challenges and promote independent and objective journalism in Albania.

UNESCO

Authored by: AA VV

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This publication examines the implementation of media accountability systems in South East Europe and Turkey created and followed by media professionals on voluntary basis.

Data Protection and Privacy

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Emirjon Marku

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report discusses the complex relationship between journalism data protection and privacy rights. It acknowledges journalism's need for personal information for reporting while recognizing citizens' rights to data protection and privacy. Both freedom of expression and the right to data protection and privacy are constitutional imperatives in Albania and under the European Convention on Human Rights. The document aims to guide journalists editors and media directors in understanding the balance between these rights providing insights into legal developments including GDPR in the EU and ethical considerations. However, it does not offer exhaustive solutions for achieving legal compliance in this context.

Digital Media

European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development

Authored by: Amra Kapo

Language: English

Document Type: Study

The study part of the SustainMedia project analyses the digital media landscape in the Western Balkans aiming to enhance media freedom and pluralism. It explores collaboration opportunities between 66 media outlets and startups/IT sectors mapping the ecosystem and suggesting ways to improve digital presence. It addresses challenges like market underdevelopment and financial constraints proposing joint content creation distribution and product partnerships to boost performance and adaptability.

BIRN

Authored by: Marija Ristic and Sofija Todorovic

Language: English

Document Type: Report

Between January 26 and May 26, 2020, the coronavirus pandemic in Central and Southeastern Europe led to 163 digital rights breaches uncovered by BIRN and SHARE Foundation. These incidents primarily occurred in Hungary Bosnia and Herzegovina Croatia Serbia Romania and North Macedonia. Among these breaches 68 cases involved manipulations in the digital environment and 25 were related to publishing falsehoods and unverified information to harm individuals' reputations. The monitoring found that over half of the violations were connected to propaganda disinformation falsehoods and the dissemination of unverified information. Furthermore, citizens were the victims in nearly 80 percent of these cases.

Council of Europe

Authored by: Kristina Irion, Michele Ledger, Sara Svensson and Nevena Rsumovic

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This study assesses the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM) of Serbia using the INDIREG methodology commissioned by the Council of Europe within the JUFREX project. Established in 2014 REM operates in a challenging media environment lacking optimal support from parliament and facing challenges with the Ministry of Culture and Information. Despite its formal establishment REM is perceived by many stakeholders as lacking enforcement and public credibility often resorting to overly formalistic activities. The INDIREG methodology evaluates REM's independence based on five dimensions: Status and powers, financial autonomy, Autonomy of decision-makers, Knowledge and transparency, and Accountability. The study proceeds in three steps: gathering data on REM's independence applying the INDIREG Ranking Tool and deriving attention points for contextual interpretation. The study aims to provide policy recommendations to improve REM's effectiveness in regulating Serbia's electronic and audiovisual media.

Disinformation and Misinformation

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Kristina Voko, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The report discusses the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, leading to a major escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian war and resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and millions of refugees. It also highlights the information war accompanying the conflict with a wave of disinformation spread through media channels and social media platforms. To map the spread of disinformation in Albania the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network researched false news articles and decontextualized photos and videos related to the invasion in Albanian language media outlets in Albania Kosovo North Macedonia and the Albanian diaspora. The research found that false news on Ukraine has proliferated in Albanian language media outlets mainly generated abroad and distributed on social media platforms then translated and republished by local media outlets for commercial reasons. Weak editorial structures in Albanian media especially in start-up digital native media outlets contribute to the high rate of false news narratives being translated and republished.

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Kristina Voko, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report discusses the challenge of Russian disinformation in Europe and candidate countries like Albania. It notes that Russian-backed influence campaigns have targeted democratic processes elections and the COVID-19 pandemic. While the EU has taken steps to combat disinformation Albania is still catching up. Russian state-sponsored media outlets like RT and Sputnik are identified as major sources of disinformation but they do not have publications in Albanian. Nonetheless Russian narratives can still reach Albanian audiences through other means.

Freedom and access to information

BIRN

Authored by: Blerjana Bino, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This eport discusses Iran's influence in the Western Balkans particularly in Albania highlighting the country's use of proxies intelligence operations and support for opposition groups in the region. Iran's diplomatic relationship with Albania established in 1999 has been complex with tensions rising after Albania accused Iran of launching a cyberattack on its digital infrastructure in 2022. The attack allegedly conducted by Iran-affiliated groups aimed to disrupt public services and seize control of government communications. Albania's hosting of the Mujahedeen El-Khalq (MEK) an Iranian opposition group has further strained relations potentially impacting wider geopolitical negotiations. Examining Iran's public diplomacy in Albania through state-sponsored media outlets is crucial given the role of information warfare in modern geopolitics. Understanding Iran's messaging is essential for grasping its influence and intentions in the region.

BIRN

Authored by: BIRN

Language: English, Serbian and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The report focuses on governmental transparency and accountability in the Balkans particularly regarding access to public documents mostly by journalists. It highlights a trend of deteriorating media freedom and the challenging environment for journalists in the region. Despite being a priority reform area in the EU accession agenda for Western Balkan countries media freedom remains limited with systemic shortcomings requiring sustained efforts. The report cites instances of threats to media workers and surveillance indicating a challenging environment for journalism. The situation was deemed particularly concerning in Serbia with growing authoritarianism highlighted as a key issue. Corruption and organised crime are also significant challenges with limited capacities and security concerns constraining media reporting on these issues. Overall the report paints a picture of ongoing challenges to media freedom and governance in the Balkans with some countries showing slight improvements but others experiencing declines.

Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom

Council of Europe

Authored by: Deirdre Kevin and Asja Rokša- Zubčević

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Study

The purpose of this study was to provide an assessment of the existing legal and regulatory framework and approaches relative to harmful content online in Bosnia and Herzegovina and to recommend concrete steps and measures for enhancing the current approach with a particular focus on possibilities and modalities of establishing a functioning and comprehensive implementation mechanism based on co-regulation and cooperation.

COE/MInistry for Human Rights and Refugees of BiH

Authored by: Henry Lovat

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Technical paper

State monitoring and reporting are core international human rights obligations. The inclusion of such obligations in international human rights instruments and mechanisms reflects a widespread understanding that gathering analysing and enabling scrutiny of states’ compliance with their substantive human rights obligations is central to enhancing the protection and realisation of these rights. The main objective of this technical paper is to analyse the state institutions to collect monitor and analyse the effectiveness of such monitoring and reporting.

Media Freedom Rapid Response

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The report warns that media freedom in the country is in decline against a backdrop of new restrictive laws hostile rhetoric and denigration of journalists by public officials and ongoing systemic challenges to the independence of public service media.

Authored by: Association of Journalists of Macedonia

Language: English

Document Type: Report

This report presents the findings and recommendations stemming from an international fact-finding mission to North Macedonia from 5 to 7 June 2023, organised by the Association of Journalists of Macedonia. A fact-finding mission of representatives of five leading European press freedom organisations visited the country, meeting with the most relevant policymakers in Skopje to assess the persistent problems of the media sector.

Article 19

Authored by: Bojana Kostić

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Research

This report explores the local-specific contextual concerns stemming from global non-transparent and profit-driven content moderation processes of social media. The report analyses what happens when certain local communities and countries are ‘invisible’ to social media platforms and illustrates how cross-sectoral collaboration in the form of a coalition for freedom of expression and content moderation could help these communities engage with social media platforms and have a voice in content moderation cases that impact their society.

Mediacentar Sarajevo

Authored by: Anida Sokol and Maja Ćalović

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Research

The study gives an overview of types of harmful content and their main target groups and presents the legislative regulatory and self-regulatory frameworks against harmful content online in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study also looks at the obstacles in implementing the available frameworks in Bosnia and Herzegovina and their alignment with international standards and provides recommendations for their improvement.

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Ermal Nazifi and Michael J. Oghia

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The report "Internet Governance in Albania and its Role in Media Freedom" examines the intersection of internet governance and media freedom in Albania. It is part of a project funded by the European Commission and implemented by the Albanian Media Institute and the International Federation of Journalists. The report aims to provide an overview of the legal landscape for online media and content providers in Albania and explore the issues where internet governance and media development overlap. It highlights concerns about the deterioration of the media environment in Albania including restrictions on journalists' access and government attempts to control the media narrative. The report also discusses the impact of social media on journalism and the challenges journalists face such as defamation lawsuits and smear campaigns. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of balancing internet governance regulations with freedom of expression to protect media freedom in the country.

Council of Europe

Authored by: Mirjana Lazarova Trajkovska

Language: English

Document Type:

The "Reinforcing Judicial Expertise on Freedom of Expression and the Media in South-East Europe (JUFREX)" program jointly conducted by the Council of Europe and the European Union aims to enhance freedom of expression and media freedom in Southeast Europe. It focuses on training judges, prosecutors, lawyers and media actors as well as supporting media regulatory bodies. The program is implemented in Albania Bosnia and Herzegovina Montenegro Serbia North Macedonia and Kosovo with the goal of aligning practices with Council of Europe standards. The main beneficiaries include judicial academies bar associations media regulatory authorities' associations of journalists and press councils.

Innovation

Internews

Authored by: Internews

Language: English

Document Type: Case study

The Balkans region faces challenges to press freedom with journalists encountering political polarization and threats from criminal groups. Political-economic interests control much of the media sector limiting competition and public access to objective reporting. USAID's Balkan Media Assistance Program (BMAP) aimed to address these issues by empowering local media enhancing professionalism and promoting sustainable practices. Through BMAP media partners saw significant increases in advertising revenue and audience size. The program also facilitated collaborations digital security improvements and regional partnerships fostering a more resilient and impactful media sector in the Balkans.

USAID

Authored by: USAID

Language: English

Document Type:

The media sector in the Western Balkans faces challenges despite some progress with Freedom House classifying countries in the region as "partly free" and in "transitional or hybrid regimes." The region's political crises compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn have been worsened by propaganda and disinformation campaigns. USAID aims to strengthen independent media in North Macedonia by enhancing accountability countering corruption and building on the success of the Balkan Media Assistance Program (BMAP). The new program BMAP FORWARD will provide targeted training mentoring and funding to improve business management and digital content quality. It will also fund events to facilitate partnerships and networks across sectors. The expected results include expanded online audiences increased use of innovative media formats improved digital safety and decreased donor dependency for media outlets in the region.

Center for Media International Assistance

Authored by: Sanela Hodžić and Brankica Petković

Language: English

Document Type: Report

This report assesses the opportunities and roadblocks to cross-border cooperation for media development and reform in Southeast Europe. It also makes recommendations for the road ahead. Since 2015 CIMA has worked with Deutsche Welle Akademie and other partners to host consultative multistakeholder regional dialogues motivated by one essential question: How can cross-border networks work together most effectively to address the myriad challenges threatening independent journalism? Building on previous work in Latin America (2015) Southeast Asia (2016) sub-Saharan Africa (2017) West Africa (2019) the Middle East and North Africa (2019) and Southern Africa (2021) this report examines the opportunities and roadblocks to coalition-building for media reform in this important European region that throughout history has had enormous consequences for peace and stability far beyond its borders.

Media Education

OSCE

Language: English

Document Type: Report/Survey

The media sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is facing numerous obstacles. The sector is characterized by a large number of media outlets continuous marketing income decrease and political pressure on editorial policy and media freedoms. There are three public broadcasting services around 100 TV stations 150 radio stations 8 news agencies and 8 daily newspapers as well as numerous online media that compete for income in a modest media market. In addition to this the COVID-19 pandemic has had a strong adverse impact on the media sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The media suffered a sharp advertising income decline and some were forced to fire journalists and other media professionals. In spite of a better epidemiological situation and income generated in 2021 the media are still facing financial consequences and journalists are still inadequately paid.

Council of Media Ethics in Macedonia

Authored by: Marina Tuneva

Language: Macedonian

Document Type: Guidelines

The guide aims at upgrading the ethical framework and ethical standards in reporting on violent extremism and terrorism.

BIRN

Authored by: BIRN

Language: English

Document Type: Study

The study conducted by BIRN in 2017 examined media reporting on organized crime and corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina Kosovo and Serbia. It found that external pressures whether from political business or criminal circles significantly influence how the media cover these issues. In Serbia media reporting is widely seen as manipulated by the ruling elite to maintain power attacking opponents and influencing legal outcomes. Bosnia also experiences media instrumentalization with different political factions using media for their agendas. Kosovo faces similar pressures but without clear evidence of widespread media manipulation. Instead, the focus is on suppressing damaging reports about politicians and businessmen. The study highlights how these external pressures shape media narratives and impact the public's understanding of these issues.

BIRN

Authored by: Alba Cela, Gjergj Erebara

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The United Nations Convention against Corruption emphasizes the detrimental impact of corruption particularly in developing countries like Albania. Despite efforts to combat corruption and progress in legal and institutional frameworks it remains pervasive affecting all levels of society. High levels of perceived corruption persist among Albanians with many reporting solicitations for bribes or engagement in corrupt practices. This has led to low confidence in anti-corruption measures and institutions. Albania and Kosovo rank as the most corrupt countries in the Western Balkans with few high-profile corruption cases resulting in convictions contributing to a sense of impunity and eroding public trust in the government and judiciary.

Media Inclusion

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Bylyre Serjanaj, Izela Tahsini, Kristina Voko, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report discusses the impact of the Internet and social media on gender stereotypes particularly towards women in the public sphere. It highlights how online platforms can reinforce harmful gender stereotypes and bias affecting women's professional careers especially in politics. Despite quota systems in politics women remain underrepresented in leadership positions in Albania. Previous research has shown a gender bias in media coverage of women candidates with many facing slander and fake news. The coverage of women in the 2023 local elections in Albania mirrored previous trends with fewer opportunities for promotion and less focus on professional achievements. Overall the challenges women political candidates face in media representation and online abuse can discourage their political ambitions and participation in the political sphere limiting their chances of holding decision-making positions.

Media Literacy

CFI

Authored by: Charlotte Morel

Language: English

Document Type:

Canal France International (CFI) has launched the Balkan Voices 2 project to address the rise of disinformation in the Balkans exacerbated by recent events. The project focusing on media literacy targets young people in Albania Kosovo North Macedonia Bosnia and Herzegovina Serbia and Montenegro. Building on the success of its predecessor Balkan Voices CFI's initiative includes workshops training courses and content creation activities aimed at enhancing media literacy among future journalists. The project also emphasizes fact-checking gender and environmental awareness and the creation of independent content. Through these efforts CFI aims to combat disinformation and promote responsible media use in the region.

Mediacentar Sarajevo and Peace Institute

Authored by: Mediacentar Sarajevo and Peace Institute

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The report “Mobilization for Protecting the Public Interest in the Media” starts from the notion that media performance and media reforms will be determining the course of history, and that mapping good practices will help us envisage media activism that can enable the prevalence of public interest values in journalism, media, and communication in these times of crisis. The report seeks to present good examples of media activism, including those that were successful in bringing changes of media policies and practices, but also those successful in reframing public policies and raising public awareness, harnessing wider support, involving novel topics or types of actions, or successful only insomuch as they exist as a challenge to existing policies and practices.

Media Diversity Institute Western Balkans

Authored by: Dorentina Hysa, Aleksandar Đokić, Lucija Marčec. Ivona Malbašić, Stefan Janjić

Language: English

Document Type:

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) has become increasingly important in light of global developments such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions which have fueled the spread of misinformation. Albania Croatia and Serbia face challenges in MIL with low rankings in media literacy and freedom. Research conducted by the Albania Media Institute Fade In and Media Diversity Institute Western Balkans aimed to assess the state of MIL in these countries from 2020 to 2023 revealing a lack of national strategies and policies prioritizing MIL in education.

Council of Europe

Authored by: Paolo Celot

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This document identifies principles and defines guidelines to prepare a media information literacy (MIL) programme and its implementation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH).

Canton Sarajevo

Language: B/H/S

Document Type: Policy Document

In 2021, based on the developed background documents the project supported the drafting of a specific document for the canton-level government in Sarajevo - the Strategy on Media and Information Literacy in Canton Sarajevo. This document was developed by a working group composed of 10 members including the members of the project partner’s team. The document was adopted in April 2022 by the Ministry for Science High-education and Youth in Canton Sarajevo and in June 2022 by the Ministry of Education of Sarajevo Canton and it represents the first MIL strategic document in the canton.

Press council of Serbia

Authored by: Petar Radosavljev, Nevena Krivokapić Martinović and Bojan Perkov

Language: Serbian

Document Type: Research

The research examines the extent to which the local self-governments in Serbia take into account the profiles of the competing media and their respect for professional and ethical standards of journalism when making decisions on the co-financing of media projects in local competitions. The objective was to understand whether decision-makers primarily members of commissions and competent bodies of local self-governments defend the public interest and citizens' right to access quality information when allocating public funding in competitions for the co-financing of media projects.

CIMA/NED

Authored by: Anida Soko

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The media sectors in Southeast Europe face significant challenges including oversaturation political and business influence and financial pressures leading to low-quality journalism. Journalists often face threats and attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation. Despite these challenges the region has a strong tradition of advocacy for media reforms and independent media. Recent efforts have focused on advancing media and information literacy (MIL) and improving media ownership transparency. However there is a need for greater regional cooperation to address these issues effectively. Recommendations include providing urgent financial and legal support for journalists and media outlets improving transparency in media ownership and financing and building a regional advocacy network. These efforts aim to ensure that media assistance is responsive to local needs and supports media freedom and independence in the region.

Council of Europe

Authored by: Martina Chapman, Ricardo Castellini da Silva and Ioana Avadani

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Study

This study explores how the development of basic Digital Media Literacy skills can help empowering citizens to make informed choices about the content they consume share and create – and by extension help to counter the issue of Disinformation in the Digital Age. It provides practical guidance on how to communicate the principles that underpin Digital Media Literacy – such as the development of critical thinking skills.

European Union

Authored by: Brankica Petković, Sandra Bašić Hrvatin, Ilda Londo, Sanela Hodžić, Vesna Nikodinoska, Slavčo Milenkovski, Pavle Pavlović, Dubravka Valić, Nedeljković Milica, Janjatović Jovanović

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The South East European Network for Professionalisation of Media (SEENPM) has spent nearly two decades working to improve media in South East Europe for democratic purposes. Through various initiatives including training promoting ethics and self-regulation and advocating for media integrity SEENPM has aimed to strengthen public service values in media and journalism. This book part of a regional project supported by the EU focuses on advancing media and information literacy (MIL) in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. It discusses the current state of MIL policies and practices in these countries and emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies and institutional frameworks for MIL development. Despite some positive developments MIL is not a political priority in the region remaining primarily a concern for civil society and international organizations. The regional project seeks to elevate MIL on the political agenda support grassroots efforts and foster cooperation among various sectors to promote a systemic approach to MIL.

Media Pluralism

European University Institute

Authored by: Bilic Pasko and Valecic Monika

Language: English

Document Type: Report

This report presents the results of the implementation of the Media Pluralism Monitor for the year 2022 (MPM2023) in Croatia. The MPM is a holistic tool geared at assessing the risks to media pluralism in EU member states and selected candidate countries (32 European countries in total including Albania Montenegro the Republic of North Macedonia Serbia and Turkey). The MPM takes into account legal political and economic variables that are relevant to analysing the levels of plurality of media systems in a democratic society. The Media Pluralism Monitor has been implemented on a regular basis by the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom since 2013/2014.

European University Institute

Authored by: Irina Milutinovic

Language: English

Document Type: Research

This report presents the results and the methodology of the Media Pluralism Monitor 2023 based on its implementation in 32 countries (27 EU member states and 5 candidate countries) for the year 2022. The Media Pluralism Monitor (MPM) is a tool that is geared to assessing the risks to media pluralism in both EU member states and in candidate countries. Since 2013/2014 it has been implemented on a regular basis by the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom and on a yearly basis since 2020. This tool is based on a holistic perspective taking into account the legal political and economic variables that are relevant in analysing the levels of plurality in media systems in a democratic society.

Media Support

EU Commission

Authored by: EU Commission

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The EU is funding several projects in the Western Balkans to support media development and freedom of expression. These projects focus on sustainable funding for Public Service Media building trust in media reinforcing judicial expertise providing direct support to media initiatives and improving journalism quality and professionalism. The EU has allocated approximately €11.5 million for regional initiatives and around €8.2 million for specific projects in countries like Albania Bosnia and Herzegovina Kosovo and North Macedonia aiming to strengthen media freedom and independent journalism in the region.

Authored by: Lviv Media Forum

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The Lviv Media Forum research team has conducted this study to understand how the so-called media donor landscape works in Ukraine. The term “donor landscape" implies the space for interaction that arises in the conditions of cooperation between international donor organisations and the media, which receive grants to be spent on their work.

Public Media Funding

Hrvatsko novinarsko društvo Sindikat novinara Hrvatske

Authored by: Melisa Skender

Language: Croatian

Document Type: Analysis

The analysis of funding local media with public money underscores the need to support media in the public interest given the serious consequences of leaving the media sector solely to market regulation. With the emergence of large technological companies dominating advertising budgets and audience attention investing in quality journalism is crucial. However non-transparent funding poses risks such as influencing editorial policies. Research on media funding from the budget in Croatia shows that current mechanisms for protecting media independence have failed. Funding is often allocated based on discretionary decisions of local leaders lacking clear criteria.