• Enhances the independence of the media in the region, complementing existing training sessions for journalists, enhances freedom of expression for cultural operators and for independent media (e.g. the public media sector continues its gradual shift from being a state-controlled propaganda tool to becoming a reliable source of balanced information respecting political pluralism and freedom of opinion);
• Raises the levels of professionalism of both traditional and new media operators and helps them embrace a code of ethics based on principles that are commonly accepted internationally;
• Promotes networking between journalism schools/faculties in the region to exchange best practices especially on issues related to freedom of expression and codes of ethics and promotes regional networking activities for media associations in the region;
• Facilitates the creation of regional platforms that bring together national authorities, civil society organisations and media representatives to improve media legislation and facilitate media;
• Contributes to cultural policy reforms and reinforces the capacity of cultural policymakers while promoting investment in culture and the development of cultural operators’ business capabilities;
• Improves the access of the wider public to both independent new media and cultural and artistic creation and heritage, helps to secure bigger audiences for independent media operators including community media and increases the audience for cultural productions at local and regional levels;
• Helps potential investors gain a better knowledge/understanding of the cultural sector.

Programme Action Fiche (page 11)