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

Part II Myanmar: New Media Freedom, New Transformation Challenges Radio and Televisionhosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 2014as important benchmarks on the path to elections in 2015.Undoubtedly these elections will be a critical milestone inthe transition to a more democratic society. 108 And in this, ofcourse, MRTV will have a decisive role to play in enhancing thepeople’s understanding of electoral processes as only educatedcitizens can make informed choices.As other transformation processes demonstrate, it is particularlyimportant that all stakeholders involved cooperateto support MRTV’s transformation process towards genuinepublic service media. Based upon the assessment of the transformationprocess of MRTV as well as upon individual recommendationsby diverse stakeholders interviewed for this chapter,the following possible measures can be assembled here:As the transformation process is only just beginning an alterationon all levels within MRTV as well as in its legal frameworkseems necessary – but it may be acknowledged that the firstpromising steps have been made thanks to the commitmentof the government to transform MRTV into a genuine publicservice media organization.– Creating a legal environment for public service media,which enables MRTV to do their work freely – editoriallyand financially.– Strengthening regional coverage through regionalnews offices, so the whole country and all sectors ofsociety are included – reflecting Myanmar’s ethnic andlinguistic diversity.– Investing in specific training and capacity buildingso that MRTV broadens the range of stories, issues andevents covered and leaves behind the official politicalagenda.– Finding ways to support and safeguard editorial independence,credibility and accountability – in order togain the public’s trust.– Offering management training is of the same importance,as a functioning public service broadcaster needsefficient managers.– Improving salaries for MRTV staff not only to fightcorruption and encourage independence but also tofind and keep suitable employees.– Strengthening a new understanding of the meaningof public service media on all levels of the organization.This should go in line with an enhanced education ofjournalists on their rights and responsibilities as well asregional and communal issues. Reflecting on the inclusionof all groups in society, including the weakest. Understandingthe bigger picture of the society in Myanmarwill be very significant in the forthcoming reformprocess.106Dolan & Gray 2013, 22.107Zin Lynn, Journalist and vicepresident of the Burma MediaAssociation.108Reporters without Borders2012, 13.Edition DW Akademie In the Service of the Public 151