"[...] the Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP) has proven critical in providing long- and short-term responses to the threats against information integrity. It strengthens the rule of law through empowering judges, prosecutors, and parliamentarians in prote ... cting freedom of expression. It addresses the spread of mis- and disinformation and hate speech through human rights based governance of digital platforms, media and information literacy, and tackling technology-facilitated gender-based violence. The Programme also safeguards public service broadcasters, community media and media established by Indigenous Peoples, thereby fostering diverse and inclusive media ecosystems. The MDP addresses the threats to journalists through policy-advice, capacity-building, international cooperation, partnerships, and advocacy. Finally, it empowers media organisations and Member States to prepare for and respond to crises - ranging from armed conflict, climate change and disasters, to displacement, providing vital information when and where it is most needed. This report demonstrates how the MDP has allowed UNESCO to respond to these global challenges, by combining structural approaches with flexible responses to crisis and emerging trends. The aggregate trends documented in the World Trends Report are a reminder that concerted efforts remain critical to counter the global backlash against freedom of expression. The analysis of results confirms that even in volatile circumstances, UNESCO – through the MDP – remained capable to deliver by combining normative guidance, policy dialogue, and capacity development coupled with targeted country support. Its global reach was facilitated by extensive networks. The previous biennium also provides important lessons-learnt that will inform future programming, including findings from a forthcoming external evaluation." (Preface) more

"Since it first began substantial implementation in 2018, the MDP has enabled UNESCO’s Communication and Information Sector to immediately respond to emerging priorities and needs affecting freedom of expression, the safety of journalists, access to information, and community media. Before its cre ... ation, UNESCO Officers in the field were limited to regular programme funds, and few extrabudgetary projects limited in time and scope, therefore, at times, were unable to provide the urgent support requested by local stakeholders or respond to any emerging need. Through its inherent flexibility, the MDP has over the past four years been able to provide core funding for initiatives, or co-fund projects, as well as maintain momentum when field offices experienced delays in receiving funds between two extrabudgetary projects. It has also enabled UNESCO to immediately respond to urgent needs and not miss windows of opportunity. During the reporting period, this flexibility has allowed the MDP to respond to crises as they appeared, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Beirut port explosions, the 2021 crisis in Gaza, or political events in Afghanistan and Myanmar. The MDP’s response to emergencies has been critical and, maintaining this approach, it will continue to respond to urgent needs in countries such as Afghanistan, Lebanon, and Ukraine in the coming biennium." (Summary, page 6) more