"In 2008, the CBA and UNESCO published the results of a survey of 72 Commonwealth broadcasters which looked at the nature of user-generated content (UGC). It considered what use they make of UGC and their involvement in promoting media and information literacy (MIL). The survey identified a lack of initiatives by broadcasters to encourage UGC and promote MIL. But it also revealed that broadcasters noted an almost universal desire for assistance in these areas. The aim of these guidelines is to provide such assistance by outlining ways in which broadcasters can promote MIL to their audiences and at the same time encourage the production of relevant UGC for broadcast. The promotion of UGC and MIL and the use of UGC are vital for helping the media to fulfil its democratic functions in society. By providing not only a space for the public to express themselves but also the skills and capacity to take part in public debate, broadcasters can ensure that citizens’ right to freedom of expression is realised." (Introduction, page 6)