Media Self-Regulation and Accountability

The Media Program supports development of appropriate mechanisms for ensuring increased professionalism, accuracy, and adherence to ethical standards among journalists. The Media Program considers funding for the following types of projects:

• developing codes of ethics (since it is the Media Program’s policy that such standards are best developed by journalists themselves, priority is given to journalists’ associations);
• creating alternative forms of self-regulation including press councils, media ombudsmen, and press complaints commissions;
• ensuring accurate coverage of the media, on a limited basis, through projects aimed at developing media criticism and content-monitoring skills in a number of target areas. This includes representation of minority groups, political parties (especially during election periods), and other topical areas. (Applicants, however, should note that the Media Program typically requires a strong advocacy and training component to be included in the development of such initiatives).

Assistance is available through direct support for in-country initiatives as well as for exchange of expertise.