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20 Years of Networking for Independent Media Worldwide

Forum Media and Development (fome) (2025), 31 pp.

"Twenty years ago, representatives from a handful of organisations involved in media development cooperation established the Forum Media and Development (fome). Some could draw on nearly 40 years of experience, some were newbies in the field of media development assistance. However, it was only thre ... e years earlier that all these actors had met for the first time to share information about their specific work and common challenges. After a few meetings and a jointly organised conference — known today as fome symposium — the founding members decided to collaborate more closely to sustain this exchange and their commitment to shared goals. Meanwhile, 31 organisations and institutions from Germany and Switzerland have been forming a stable network for years. Instruments and focal points have evolved over the past 20 years; the shared goals and, consequently, the ongoing tasks have remained consistent for fome members: learning from one another and from partners; coordination of joint action and collaboration; promotion of media support within development cooperation. In fact, media development has gained a significantly stronger presence within German development assistance over the last decades. In the early years of fome's existence, media was one of several cross-cutting themes, for which four hours of the responsible staff member's time were allocated in the governmental administration. Currently, two staff members are responsible for media assistance within the BMZ — the German Federal Ministry for Economic Development and Cooperation. A fixed title has been established in the budget plan since 2015: ’Promotion of media, access to information, and freedom of expression in partner countries’. Over the years, this amount increased to €30 million. However, the sum was not increased in the fourth year, which ultimately signifies a slight decline, as personnel and material costs have risen during the same period. The challenges in media assistance, however, increased over these 20 years. Digital media caused the breakdown of traditional funding business models, and especially local communication spaces are becoming more vulnerable.Never before have so many journalists faced such severe threats — being murdered in war zones, imprisoned by authoritarian regimes, and subjected to hate speech and open threats on social media. Digital media serve as tools of hybrid warfare, and the ways in which propaganda and misinformation influence democratic elections and societal debates have increased. AI will further boost the potential of deepfakes. Therefore, combating disinformation remains a key focus of German media support. However, fighting disinformation also involves backing credible media organisations and making independent journalists as resilient as possible against various forms of attack. It also involves identifying the most effective ways of publishing and accessing information, as well as exploring the potential of AI in journalists' professional environments. The most effective approaches to achieve this have been the subject of learning and discussion in the fome network during the last 20 years, and they will be explored within the fome network over the next 20 years. Some of the member organisations featured in this brochure highlight one of their projects, which they implement with media professionals in the so-called Global South. The individual articles also demonstrate the diversity of the member organisations and their various areas of activity across different regions of the world." (Introduction by Sofie Jannusch) more

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End Term evaluation of the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) programme support 2018-2024. Final report

Greg Moran, Marko Gideon

Sundbyberg: Swedish International Development Agency (Sida) (2025), x, 59, 28 pp.

"The Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) was established in 1995 as a self-regulatory body to oversee and promote media ethics and resolve complaints over media practice. MCT’s activities have since expanded to include training and advocacy on laws, policies, and protecting key rights for the media. S ... more

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Results-based report on IPDC projects implemented in 2022-2023

Paris: International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) (2024), 47 pp.

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68th meeting of the Bureau of the Intergovernmental Council of IPDC 20 - 21 June 2024. Item 4 of the provisional agenda: Results-based report on projects approved by the 66th meeting of the IPDC Bureau (June 2022) and Rapid-response mechanism projects implemented in 2022-2023, part II

Paris: International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) (2024), 190 pp

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Evaluation of the BMAP-Forward Activity

Sarah Eissler, Micheal Buehler, Brenda Pearson, Miodrag Bogdanovic, Anida Soko, Arben Qirezi

Washington, DC: USAID; Integra Government Services International (2024), 165 pp.

"Activity Description: The Balkan Media Assistance Program to Foster Organizational Readiness While Advancing Resilient Development (BMAP-FORWARD) is a $13 million regional Activity (2022-2028) that aims to strengthen the independence and resilience of media outlets in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo ... , Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Evaluation Purpose: USAID/Europe and Eurasia Bureau requested a mid-term performance evaluation of BMAP-FORWARD to understand which approaches, tools, and interventions are successfully contributing to planned outcomes according to the Activity’s three key objectives: 1) Increase strategic business practices of key media partners to operate as viable enterprises and better understand their markets and audiences; 2) Reinforce the ability of content producers to produce data-driven content, engage wider audiences, improve digital security efforts, and expand reach across the region; and 3) Foster stronger partnerships between media outlets and the technology, commercial, and entrepreneurial sectors to advance solutions on common challenges in the information space. Evaluation Design: Mixed methods and non-experimental evaluation design approaches, including Expert Consultations and Outcome Harvesting, were employed to collect and analyze primary and secondary data, including reviewing 140 documents, conducting 51 key informant interviews with experts, 47 in-depth interviews with recipients of assistance, an online Expert Survey (n=63), and conducting 13 interviews and an online validation survey (n=48) to substantiate outcome stories. All data were triangulated to inform the evidence base to develop each finding and conclusion. Key Findings: BMAP-FORWARD’s tailored and localized approach is a key strength of its ability to provide effective, useful, and timely assistance, which has strengthened Key Media Partners’ (KMPs’) shift towards strategic planning, ability to pursue diversified revenue sources, improve content production and technology use to engage wider audiences, produce data-driven content using new software, and engage in cross-border collaborations. BMAP-FORWARD assistance has strengthened KMPs’ digital security practices and protocols, although with room for improvement to sustain this support. While BMAPFORWARD has made inroads to foster partnerships between media and non-traditional actors, key factors inhibit progress towards this Activity Objective (Objective 3). Key Recommendations: BMAP-FORWARD should: 1) continue to employ the highly tailored approach to learn KMPs’ needs, co-create solutions and action plans, identify resources to implement solutions, and present new ideas; 2) consider providing more opportunities for intentional engagement for peer-to-peer learning for newsroom staff from different outlets, including non-KMPs and different media across the region; 3) consider investing in strengthening in-house expertise capacity or identify long-term solutions for each KMP to navigate the evolving digital security challenges; and 4) consider designing and marketing sessions at forums geared towards facilitating potential partnerships between private sector actors and KMPs, which can be followed by ongoing assistance to support KMPs in navigating how to structure partnerships." (Abstract) more

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Building Trusted Media in a Fragile Setting: An Evaluation of Radio Ndeke Luka in Central African Republic

Jeffrey Conroy-Krutz

Michigan State University (2024), 8 pp.

"Can the impact of a news radio station on a highly vulnerable population in a crisis-affected country be measured? The installation of new FM transmitters for Radio Ndeke Luka in Beloko, Birao, and Obo in the Central African Republic offered an opportunity to carry out a field study measuring the i ... mpact of our radio station before and after its introduction in these remote regions of the country. The results of this study reveal a tangible impact and a shift in listeners’ perceptions, particularly regarding misinformation. The Central African Republic, marked by a weak central state, widespread poverty, and recurring intercommunal conflicts, is particularly vulnerable to misinformation. Radio Ndeke Luka, a project of Fondation Hirondelle in CAR, plays a crucial role by broadcasting reliable news 24/7 in both French and Sango across the country. Thanks to funding from the European Union, new FM transmitters for RNL were installed between December 2021 and April 2022 in remote areas of the Central African Republic, specifically in Beloko, Birao, and Obo. This provided an opportunity to assess the radio’s impact on local populations before and after the installation. Investigators from the local network of IMMAR Research & Consultancy followed a protocol developed by Dr. Jeff Conroy Krutz, Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at Michigan State University. This protocol ensured a random selection of adult participants and gender balance. In total, over 1,700 people were interviewed before the transmitters were installed, and more than 1,800 afterwards, within the same communities across the three localities. Measured Impacts Increase in Audience: RNL became the most listened-to radio station in the targeted areas within months of the new transmitters going live. Relevance and Impartiality: 52% of listeners considered RNL’s programs essential to their daily lives. Trust and impartiality scores also improved between the pre- and post-launch periods. Trust in RNL far exceeded that of other locally accessible radio stations. Combating Misinformation: Residents of the three areas reported significantly greater confidence in their ability to distinguish fact from fiction after the installation of the transmitters, which facilitated access to RNL programs." (https://www.hirondelle.org) more

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Support to Afghan Media Resilience to Foster Peace and Security

Paris: UNESCO (2024), 14 pp.

"Since August 2021, almost 50% of media outlets have ceased their operations in Afghanistan. An estimated 90% of women journalists have lost their jobs, with many more media workers having fled the country or been forced into hiding. Replying to a call from over hundred anonymous journalists for con ... more

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Central Asia Media Program: Final Report

Dmitri Surnin, Dylan Gray

USAID; Internews (2024), 158 pp.

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Case study: Strengthening media as a stakeholder in peacebuilding. Learning from peacebuilding in Kosovo and Serbia

London: Peaceful Change Initiative (2023), 12 pp.

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Moldova Media Enabling Democracy, Inclusion, and Accountability (MEDIA-M): Performance Evaluation

Sergiu Galitchi, Victoria Rosa, Pavel Sarghi, Maia Giorbelidze

USAID; Integra Government Services International (2023), 134 pp.

"The purpose of evaluating the Media Enabling Democracy, Inclusion, and Accountability in Moldova (MEDIA-M) activity is to assist the United States Agency for International Development in Moldova (USAID/Moldova) in understanding the extent to which the activity is on track to contribute to the Missi ... more

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Results-Based Report on IPDC Projects Implemented in 2021-2022

Paris: UNESCO; International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) (2023), 40 pp.

"Since its founding in 1980, the IPDC has worked to foster and secure a healthy environment for free, pluralistic, and independent media in developing countries, countries in transition, and countries in conflict and post-conflict situations. Through this mandate, the Programme has since dedicated o ... more

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Balkan Media Assistance Program: A Case Study in Locally Led Development

Washington, DC: USAID (2023), 7 pp.

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Results-Based Report on Projects Approved by the 65th Meeting of the IPDC Bureau (June 2021) and Rapid-Response Mechanism Projects Implemented in 2021-2022, Part II

Paris: International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) (2023), 356 pp.

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Inspiring the Next Generation of Independent Media in Pakistan. Final Evaluation Report

Saeed Ullah Khan, Mahe Nau Haider, Tehreem Tussaud, Zara Naveed, Aaftab Ullah et al.

Search for Common Ground; GLOW Consultants (2023), 34 + xiii pp. (annexes)

"The project design, interventions, and targeting in the two provinces of Pakistan aligned with the challenging context, especially in high-risk border districts with Afghanistan. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where conflict dynamics and security challenges are prevalent, the project is hig ... hly relevant. It offers a platform for youth and women journalists to report on conflict-related issues, enriching public discourse. The evolving media landscape in these regions, marked by increased demand for diverse voices, makes the project's empowerment of underrepresented groups crucial. Focusing on youth and women journalists, the project provides training, resources, and support tailored to their unique needs. It prioritizes inclusivity by considering gender and ethnic diversity, contributing to a pluralistic media landscape. By empowering these journalists to report on conflict and peacebuilding, the project aligns with the region's needs and furthers local perspectives on peace solutions. The project's effectiveness can be assessed in terms of its objectives, capacity-building impact, promotion of conflict-sensitive journalism, and fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for women journalists. This effectiveness was maintained despite a shift in implementation modality and a no-cost extension. Training and mentorship led to improved skills and balanced reporting on conflict-related issues, fulfilling the primary objective of responsible journalism. The project enhanced the capacity of press clubs, journalists, and universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, fostering openness and collaboration. By incorporating conflict-sensitive journalism into curricula, the project enriched journalism education and training. The project cultivated ethical reporting, sensitivity to local contexts, and diverse perspectives, contributing to understanding and peace. It empowered women journalists to work safely and independently, gaining industry support and increasing their professional capabilities. Intermediate impact assessments highlight the positive influence on the professional lives of women and youth journalists, their prominent roles in the media, and the integration of conflict sensitivity in journalism practices in target regions. The project improved job prospects, self-confidence, and balanced reporting for many participants. It promoted the active participation of youth and women in the media sector, breaking gender and age barriers. Journalists adopted a more responsible approach to conflict-related reporting, showing increased awareness of their impact on tensions. The project fostered a supportive community of practice, encouraged discussion on the media's role in peace-building, and addressed potential risks faced by women journalists. To ensure project sustainability, capacity-building, mentorship, and stakeholder engagement are prioritized. Skills and knowledge are imparted to journalists, press club members, and faculty to continue promoting conflict-sensitive journalism. Mentorship relationships will persist, with experienced journalists guiding emerging talents. Local partners, universities, press clubs, and media houses have embraced the project's initiatives, ensuring their longevity. Universities have incorporated conflict-sensitive journalism into curricula, and press clubs provide enduring platforms for collaboration and professional growth. Government support for ethical journalism and inclusivity indicates a long-term commitment to the project's principles and objectives." (Conclusions, page 32) more

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Decisions Taken at the 67th Bureau Meeting of the Intergovernmental Council of the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC), 15-16 June 2023

Paris: International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) (2023), 10 pp.

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Report on the Visibility and Fundraising Strategy for IPDC

Paris: International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) (2023), 11 pp.

"The IPDC Bureau at its 64th meeting (June 2020) requested the Secretariat to develop a targeted fundraising strategy in accordance with UNESCO’s overall fundraising strategy. It was first presented to the 32nd session of the Intergovernmental Council of the IPDC in November 2020. The Council then ... more

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Impact Analysis of UNDP Lebanon Media and Peacebuilding Activities (2020-2022)

Beirut: Triangle Consulting; UNDP (2023), 87 pp.

"The UNDP “Peace Building in Lebanon” project has been working since 2007 on enhancing mutual understanding and social cohesion by addressing the root causes of conflict in Lebanon. The project’s third phase (2014-2022) built on the previous two phases and aimed to address new challenges to c ... ivil peace and peacebuilding in the country. In addition to the Syrian crisis, Lebanon is currently facing a severe socio-political, economic and fiscal crisis. The focus of this evaluation is the second output of the UNDP Peace Building in Lebanon project – the media component – which aimed to empower media to promote balanced and conflict-sensitive media coverage. This project component received funding from KFW and UKAID. Key project activities included countering fake news at national and local levels through a) capacity building and partnerships with media practitioners and b) training on hate speech and fake news for youth and their subsequent local awareness campaigns. The project activities also included providing positive media spaces and promoting rational discourse through a news supplement and its subsequent online platform, Salam wa Kalam. The report covers the projects’ duration from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022. This evaluation relied on several data inputs, comprised of quantitative and qualitative data, analysis, and triangulation. The purpose of this final evaluation, commissioned by UNDP, is twofold. Firstly, assess the project’s performance and results according to the OECD-DAC criteria: relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact and sustainability, cross-cutting and its overall contribution to the UN strategic plan outcome 3.1: “Lebanon has institutionalized mechanisms to promote peace and prevent, mitigate, and manage conflict at national, municipal and community levels”. Secondly, ensure accountability, as well as identify and analyse findings and results to enable the incorporation of lessons learned and prepare recommendations that can be useful for the design of similar projects in the future and for organisational learning. In conclusion, UNDP’s project theory of change was relevant to Lebanon’s need to address the impact of fake news and hate speech on social cohesion. The media component aimed to improve intra-community relationships, including between Syrian refugees and host communities, in line with SDGs and LCRP goals. Lessons learned throughout the project were systematically documented to ensure effective and efficient management. The project adjusted its work plan to adapt to the changing context in Lebanon, such as COVID-19 and the fuel crisis. However, there was a lack of baseline data and defined metrics to measure and assess the project’s impact, especially on communities targeted by local awareness campaigns." (Executive summary) more

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UNESCO's Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP) Action in Nepal: 2018-2021 Quadrennial Report, Country Summaries

Paris: UNESCO (2022), 4 pp.

"From 2018 to 2021, the implementation of the MDP has been significant for the community media sector of Nepal. UNESCO has led continuous multi-stakeholder dialogue towards an improved framework for community media sustainability. This included the endorsement of the definition of community broadcas ... more

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UNESCO's Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP) Action in Somalia: 2018-2021 Quadrennial Report, Country Summaries

Paris: UNESCO (2022), 5 pp.

"Under the MDP, UNESCO has since 2018 coordinated actions with other development partners through the Somalia Media Sector Group (SMSG) to advocate for improvements in the media legislative framework and to support the implementation of the Somalia Federal Republic Media Strategy 2016-2020 as well a ... more

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UNESCO's Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP) Action in Ethiopia: 2018-2021 Quadrennial Report, Country Summaries

Paris: UNESCO (2022), 5 pp.

"Various media freedom NGOs have noted that progress achieved in 2019 in terms of freedom of expression and of the media was disrupted by a series of internet shutdowns as well as by an anti-hate speech law adopted in 2020, whose vague provisions have drawn criticism from specialized observers. Furt ... more