"Law and Ethics of the Media gives an overview on the legal contexts and institutional status of the media referring to particular national differences and settings. In addition, a variety of rules and principles as well as values - reflecting the ethics - which journalists are confronted with in th
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eir daily work are presented. In five chapters the authors focus at aspects like the "freedom of information" its "ethical" limits and restrictions, "standards of professional conduct" a balance of power (conflicts between the press and the public authority, the judiciary, economic interests etc.) as well as the function and role of media regulatory bodies or associations. Finally, concrete examples of (union) organisations and professional associations who defend the freedom of the press are given. Their respective addresses can be found at the end of the book. Written in an accessible style the aspects addressed in this practically-oriented book are frequently illustrated by examples from around the world while paying special attention to the media situation in African countries. A glossary and short bibliography round off this guide which is of use for all journalists interested in an introduction towards a "responsible" journalism." (CAMECO Media Forum 2003/1).
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"The media can be a major force for improving the quality of government in developing and transitional countries – which is critical if opportunities for the poor and disadvantaged are also to improve. To fulfil this role the media need room to manoeuvre – tight government regulation and censors
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hip produce media which are ineffective and lacking in credibility. Too little regulation, on the other hand, may lead to the domination of commercial media ruled by advertising, to the detriment of serious content and of the interests of those without purchasing power – i.e. the poor. What is needed are policies that impose responsibilities as well as freedoms on the commercial sector, and that clarify and facilitate the role of the public service media. Effective media also need good management, and good professional and technical skills. The main purpose of this guide is to help governments and development agencies to decide whether to support the development of the media, and if so how." (Introduction, page 3)
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"This cross-country case study on media policy in SouthAsia endeavours to present research and analysis of relevant policy and legislation in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Maledives; an overview of media development at regional and national level, examnie the changing trends in p
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ublic service broadcasting and attempt to identify key issues affecting media operations. In addition the study undertakes analysis and documents the role of media in conflict scenarios within the region, with particular reference to the recent Kargil incident." (Preface)
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"The book examines the reform of the communication sector in South Africa as a detailed and extended case study in political transformation - the transition from apartheid to democracy. The reform of broadcasting, telecommunications, the state information agency and the print press from apartheid-al
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igned apparatuses to accountable democratic institutions took place via a complex political process in which civil society activism, embodying a post-social democratic ideal, largely won out over the powerful forces of formal market capitalism and older models of state control. In the cautious acceptance of the market, the civil society organizations sought to use the dynamism of the market while thwarting its inevitable inequities. Forged in the crucible of a difficult transition to democracy, communication reform in South Africa was navigated between the National Party's embrace of the market and the African National Congress leadership's default statist orientation." (Publisher description)
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