Government of Myanmar signals commitment to media development

The signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding with International Media Support and Fojo Media Institute (IMS-Fojo) on 16 June signals a continued commitment by the Myanmar government to support the development of professional and independent media in Myanmar

The two organisations have been engaged in Myanmar since 2012 with a wide-range of activities in support of Myanmar’s growing media sector that range from technical support to new media-related laws, the establishment of self-regulatory system in the media sector, the establishment of the Myanmar Journalism Institute, strengthened role of journalist associations, and research and initiatives that promote greater gender equality in the media.

“The signing of the MoU allows us to continue our efforts to support independent and professional media that in turn supports the ongoing democratic reform and peacebuilding process in Myanmar. Our programme benefits a range of local partners, representing the media, civil society, and key institutions, explains Myo Min Htike, IMS-Fojo Programme Manager in Myanmar.

During the signing ceremony, U Maung Pe, Director General of IPRD from Ministry of Information expressed his appreciation of the work that IMS-Fojo has carried out in support of media development, and stressed the need for the government to work closely with civil society organisations on media law reforms.

“It is essential for us that new media law reforms are the result of inclusive processes. One example is the Right to Information law, which are being developed on the basis of submissions and input from civil society groups. These efforts should go hand in hand with media development, including development of media that reach all communities in our country,” the Director General explained.

Signing the MoU on behalf of IMS and Fojo, the IMS Deputy Head of Department for Asia, Esben Harboe, commended the continued commitment of Ministry of Information and the NLD-government to provide the space for organisations such as IMS and FOJO to actively support media reform.

“Our priority and that of our partners is to support genuine efforts to develop independent and accountable media. Despite Myanmar’s many gains in this area we cannot take fundamental freedoms such as the right to free expression and access to reliable information for granted. A vibrant, professional and independent media sector will help advance good governance, fight corruption and counter hatred and conflict,” he added.

About the programme:
The IMS-Fojo media development programme is funded with approximately 2.3 million EURO from the Swedish Development Agency (SIDA), and runs from April 2016 – April 2019. The programme focuses on i) support to media-related law and policy-making; ii) professionalisation of journalists and strengthening ethical standards; as well as iii) community media and access to information. All three pillars of the programme incorporate gender equality and the inclusion of minority groups in media. For further information:
Myo Min Htike, Programme Manager, (095)09254314803 /e-mail: mht@mediasupport.org.