"This summary presents the top-level findings of an eight-month research project aimed at assessing the needs of independent media in the EU Neighbourhood (East and South). The study was carried out by four international experts who visited 11 of the 16 partner countries and conducted interviews wit ... h more than 500 representatives from independent media, media support organisations and state bodies. They also reviewed around 800 studies, reports and articles covering media landscapes in the two regions. The aim of this initiative was to promote a better understanding of the challenges faced by independent media outlets in the target countries as well as to identify and highlight their development priorities. The experts also assessed the extent to which EU funding mechanisms are effective and appropriate in providing support to these stakeholders. The findings presented in the final report which was submitted to DG NEAR in February 2020 will help to inform EU funding programmes for independent media over the next four or five years. The research highlighted clear opportunities in both regions for bilateral engagement. Operating in an increasingly competitive and politicised market, independent media outlets share an interest in accessing funding to develop new content and explore innovative formats, particularly those that appeal to social media audiences. They also recognise the pressing need to diversify their revenue streams and increase their resilience to external pressures." (Introduction, page 3) more

"The Georgian public service broadcaster has been unable to develop into an autonomous and independent media organisation in spite of all the legal and institutional safeguards. It has been a victim of intense political manipulation and interference throughout its existence, and most domestic and ex ... ternal interventions to improve its position concentrated on changes in legislation and on administrative measures, which the political class has always been able to bypass or bend to its needs." (Conclusion) more