Developing Civil Society in Armenia through Independent Broadcast Media

摘要

From September 2000 through January 2005, with funding from USAID, Internews Network carried out a comprehensive program of support to the Armenian broadcast media sector as it struggled to establish itself in the face of an evolving political climate, a serious lack of professional human resources, and an extremely challenging economic environment. During this time, Internews Network and its partner Armenian NGO, Internews Armenia, provided comprehensive technical assistance to the broadcast community, building skills and creating connections that significantly improved the quality and quantity of information that reached the Armenian public through the most popular medium of television and on the airwaves of the countrys fledgling radio stations. With help from Internews, local broadcasters improved their self-sustainability, shared news, and information programming, and fought for changes to misguided media legislation. Through the unique pan-Caucasus program Crossroads, Armenian audiences saw stories of everyday life in Azerbaijan, presented by Azerbaijani journalists. The local media assistance organization Internews Armenia became a critical source of advice, connections and information for journalists, managers, designers, and other media professionals. Even after the end of major USAID funding for its activities, Internews Armenia continues to support cross-border programming, public service production, and capacity development for journalists.