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A number of fundamental premises underpin this report, principally that an independent and economically sustainable media does contribute to democracy and that a free, independent media is inherent to good governance. Likewise, people’s participation in state-building is conditional to access to information as this enables participatory engagement by which people may monitor, understand, and make sound choices in the reform process. Similarly, media can also empower marginal, rural people. Conversely, a weak, under-performing national media contributes to a deficit in governance as a lack of an informed public leads to poor performance in public engagement and political debate. The assessment is built upon the premise that a vibrant and healthy media sector supports broader good governance goals, including free and fair elections, anti-corruption, and economic development. Additionally, a strong, independent media sector can contribute to an enabling environment to support and enrich genuine transparency and accountability. 

By applying the UNESCO MDIs in Myanmar over a period of almost 18 months, the research team has systematically engaged in preparing this diagnostic study. Initiated in 2015, the assessment is an initiative to canvas the multiple aspects of the media sector across Myanmar. With this work now completed and with a new reform-minded government in place, this assessment will serve as more than a time-bound analysis but holds the potential to become an instrument for strengthening this fledgling sector.