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Is the media captured? New UNESCO study examines threats to media independence and ways to fight back
provides a comprehensive overview of the ways in which independent media are being undermined by both powerful external actors and decision-making structures or individuals within media organizations.
Among the developments tracked is media capture, a form of media control achieved through a series of premeditated steps taken by governments and powerful interest groups, which undermines the ability of journalism to serve as a public good. These include taking over regulatory control, state-owned media operations, public advertising, and politically linked ownership of private media.
鈥淔ailing to prevent media capture is going to deliver a fatal blow to independent journalism in more and more countries,鈥 said the study鈥檚 author, Marius Dragomir, Director of the Center for Media, Data and Society at the Central European University.
Media capture adds to the many other pressures faced by independent media, such as:
- Changes in financing models;
- Gender inequality in newsrooms;
- The financial impact of internet companies and the advertising industry on news media;
- Conflicts of interest.
Taken together, these threats have a detrimental impact on the ability of journalism to inform audiences, empower citizens, and keep power in check.
The study brings attention to the multiple efforts and initiatives that have proven successful in safeguarding independent journalism. It calls for dialogue towards practical actions to strengthen editorial independence and professional standards of journalism. It also provides a list of recommendations anchored in research and inspired by good practices to prevent and counter media capture.
An was launched in May 2020 to coincide with the World Press Freedom Day observations. A discussed the findings of the study with Dragomir alongside prominent journalists and civil society representatives.
This publication is an In-Focus edition in UNESCO鈥檚 flagship series , which is supported by the Organization鈥檚 . In line with UNESCO鈥檚 mandate to promote 鈥渢he free exchange of ideas and knowledge鈥, the series supports the advancement of universal human rights and democratic values by providing a unique and authoritative knowledge resource on developments in media freedom, pluralism, independence and the safety of journalists.
The , co-hosted by UNESCO and the Netherlands, will take place as a digital event on 9-10 December 2020. This WPFC will jointly celebrate (3 May) and the (2 November).
About the Multi-Donor Programme for Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP)
The MDP strengthens UNESCO鈥檚 work at global, regional and national levels by channeling funds towards emerging priorities and the most pressing needs to achieve its mandate on freedom of expression. It enables UNESCO鈥檚 Communication and Information Sector to address complex issues through the design and implementation of holistic media and long-term interventions. This mechanism enables UNESCO and its partners to achieve greater impact and sustainability, while reducing fragmentation of activities in the same field.
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