edition-dw-akademie-in-the-service-of-the-public-functions-and-transformation-of-media-in-developing-countries-pdf

actors within society (government and civil society, the politicalparty in power and the opposition) are given a voice. Sincethe broadcaster still runs the most important news program,it definitely has the potential to set the agenda of public topics.Nonetheless, in particular in news and current affairs programs,the voices of the ruling party dominate because journalistsinterview predominantly government representatives.One would be unlikely to find harsh criticism of the rulingparty and the government on MNB’s programming, yet onecould easily find critical stories on the behavior of politiciansfrom the opposition parties. Societal problems are also criticizedvery cautiously within the MNB programming.The wide range of topics represented in MNB’s programschedule, however, is an asset when it comes to its function asfacilitator and moderator of public debate. This program varietyhelps citizens to gain an overall understanding of theirsituation, even though some of these programs might be biasedand not balanced.Not surprisingly, within the Mongolian media environment,it is difficult to produce investigative stories due to thepolitical pressure that journalists face. Moreover, there are legalobligations within the criminal law code that are frequentlyused to harass journalists (defamation is a criminal offense).The program of MNB is affected: Though sometimes there aregood background stories, there are not enough and more indepthinvestigations and critical stories are needed in orderfor MNB to be accountable to the public. Moreover, there areno special gender programs and the issue of women is not onMNB’s agenda. Nor does the broadcaster have enough regionalprograms, i.e., stories from the countryside. Most reportingis strongly focused on the capital, rather than the rural areas.Though some topics are covered when, for example, the primeminister visits the regions, citizens of rural areas complainregularly about a lack of stories from their reality.In essence, more in-depth investigations and critical storiesare needed for MNB to be truly accountable to the public.Yet, on average, the quality of news is not very high – not onlybecause of paid-for programs, but also due to a general lack ofbasic professional skills. For the audience, this means a lack ofquality programming.Supporting IntegrationFor the empowerment of the most vulnerable in society, MNBplays a highly important role. It is the broadcaster with themost extensive coverage throughout the country. Besidesthat, it is the only media outlet that has a special channel forminorities, namely MNB2. Since the Mongolian population isrelatively homogenous, people regard MNB’s program choicefor minorities as more than sufficient. 80 Apart from broadcastingin the three main minority languages, MNB also providesprograms for deaf people in sign language. Further, it offersspecial programs for children and families, as well as a popularFM radio station for young people, and educational and culturalprograms that strengthen the cultural identity and supportnational traditions. Moreover, even critics admit that MNB’sprogramming is more diverse and more professional than privateTV. 81 However, there are too few regional programs thatdeal with the issues of the population outside of the capital.Therefore, their participation and voice is limited.In general, MNB’s programming puts a strong focus on theMongolian culture and its traditions. The function is fulfilledthrough a wide range of programs that convey traditional andmodern knowledge and cultural practices to the public. MNB’sinformational, cultural and entertainment programs providereference for what is good or important. And in this sense, thebroadcaster contributes to the creation and development ofcommon values in society.MNB distinguishes itself from commercial broadcastersthrough a high share of local content productions that promotetraditional cultural values and the national identity. Inparticular in the field of education programming, MNB offersa wide variety of shows. But, as indicated earlier, the qualityof the content is frequently questionable and programs forpolitical education (promoting democratic values) are entirelymissing.Instead, entertainment is prominently featured: 10% ofMNB’s programming is entertainment shows and 27% moviesand documentaries. However, here too, critics argue that theentertainment shows often lack quality. Moreover, MNB doesnot have a reputation as one of the innovators of the Mongolianmedia scene. Whilst MNB did establish the youth-orientedchannel P3 FM, this radio and online product is only availableto citizens in the capital. Generally, MNB is still perceived astraditionalist and rather old-fashioned. 82Achievements and ChallengesIn 2014, MNB will be in the ninth year of its transformation process.And despite all the remaining challenges, the followingstatement holds true: MNB, which used to be the former mouthpieceof the Soviet system, has undergone a change process withsignificant achievements on its path of full restructuring.The initial phase and the first years of the transformationprocess in particular are often evaluated positively: First, althoughthere should be some amendments made to the Lawon Public Radio and Television, especially with regard to thefunding and the nomination process of the NC members, itgenerally provides a solid legal framework for MNB’s functioning.Second, the support of SIDA led to a continuing improvementboth of the professional skills of MNB radio staffand their understanding of a public service mandate. Thedecisive factor in the success of this support was the continuousand long-term (five years) collaboration, which was systematicallyplanned and attuned to the everyday challenges.Further, the activities were very practical, which enabled thejournalists to be “learning by doing.” As a consequence, today“MNB radio is better organized, has its own values and ismore professional.” 83104