Memorandum of Understanding signed between Myanmar Ministry of Information and IMS
The Ministry of Information in Myanmar and International Media Support (IMS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 23 November
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is a requirement for all foreign NGOs working in the country and enables IMS to conduct its three-year media development programme “Media Development in Support of Democratic Governance and National Reconciliation in Myanmar”, funded by Denmark, Sweden and Norway.
Deputy Minister H.E U Ye Htut said at the signing of the agreement:
“The MoI-led transformation of public service media is one of the areas that will now be implemented faster thanks to the cooperation and coordination with IMS.”
Executive Director of IMS, Jesper Højberg said:
“This agreement is an important step in the continued work for media reform and development of the media sector in Myanmar.”
The two parties will cooperate on the media reform process initiated by the MOI under the MoU effective from the date of signing until late 2015.
The three-year programme works to ensure good coordination amongst national media actors, the government, donors and media development organisations. Focus is also on establishing and implementing a legal framework for media-related laws by supporting the consultations and drafting of laws that impact on media and Freedom of Expression in Myanmar.
The programme will also look at initiatives that enable Myanmar media to fulfil its role as the fourth estate. This entails capacity-building in journalistic skills and ensuring outreach of media to rural areas to widen the scope of informed citizens and improve access to information. Also, government institutions will receive capacity support to enhance and improve access to information to the public.
Since January 2012, IMS has worked with the MoI, journalist associations, civil society groups and other international and national partners to support the media reform process in Myanmar. The second phase of the IMS programme from September 2012 to August 2015 aims to assist the media and other relevant stakeholders in building a sustainable media environment which supports a democratic transition process.
