The Strategy

Ethnic minorities will form an increasingly important sector of the population over the next few decades, and the media has a special role to play in educating the public by highlighting the growing diversity in their societies and audiences.  A multi-cultural media policy both in reporting and employment can have a profound effect on the perceptions and attitudes of the public. Bent Sørensen, UNESCO Background Paper.

Despite a growing awareness of the media that they are supplying information and communication in multicultural societies, ignorance and lack of appreciation of different cultures, traditions and beliefs within the media still read to stereotypes that reinforces racist attitudes.  The International Federation of Journalists during the United Nations World Conference against Racism in Durbin in September 2001called on the international community to support work being done by journalist and media staff at regional, national and international level who join together to reassert the core principles of truth telling, independence and ethical journalism.  The IFJ has suggested establish a vigorous new global information strategy, building on existing anti-racism initiatives, and supporting the professional objectives of media professionals.

The strategic framework sets out 5 initiatives:

1.  Editorial Independence and Effective Self-Regulation.
2.  Diversity within the Media
3.  Training for Tolerance
4.  Building Industry, Co-operation and Solidarity
5.  Raising Awareness Among Journalists  (See pages  9 and 10) UNESCO Background Paper

Editorialindependence.com seeks to promote diversity and deterring discrimination in the media and entertainment industry working to raise awareness among journalist and to ensure Good Practices.