The link between media and democracy . An essay in part Does the existence of a responsible, balanced press improve governance and reduce corruption? Is the state more accountable in countries with a pluralistic media? Is the media democracy’s magic bullet? These questions are much debated, but in the media development-community the dominant view is generally “yes”. A free and plural media is necessarily a “good thing” for the furtherance of democracy, accountability, and development. 1 I am of the opinion that a huge part of Canadas democratic process, in part, is to apprise its citizens of government proceedings at all levels. Media coverage provides additional clarity and transparency in government issues. Being the eyes and ears for those not privy to meetings. Democracy can only work when there is open dialogue between government officials and the citizens who they serve. People have entrusted mainstream media outlets such as CBC to provide up-to-date information on governmental procedures and practices. Media has been and continues to be a catalyst in many areas, including politics. Media outlets, on bringing issues into the open have aided in reversing decisions made by governments as well as aided in amending some government laws and/or procedure. Change can only occur when we are aware of situations. Without media as a liaison between governments and citizens, we could be blindsided by political decisions. Media presence in political matters makes governments and politicians accountable to its citizens. While some say media outlets are more about economics , rather than reporting the news as news or guised as entertainment or shock value , I still believe media is an important and neccessary in politics . A story in my local paper announced a story that local government did not make fully known , due to a closed door council meeting . Under certain conditions in the Municipal Act (section 239) allow closed door sessions .3 Had media been allowed at this meeting , having the public know in order to offer input , this situation may have not ired so many people and politicians may not have to save face. That is why I believe media plays an integral part in democracy and due democratic process. It allows more clarity and transparency . Media in itself can not do this on its own , however media can play a huge part in the poltical arena , helping to ensure we continue to live in a democratic society . Other areas of the world can be tricky as some media is state run , and that is something we all must work together on. Media can be an important contributor to “bad”governance as well as “good.” It can help topple dictators, but it can also help authoritarian regimes oppress their citizens; it can empower people, and it can anesthetize and manipulate them. It is also clear that something new and important is happening at the intersection of communications and governance and that these digitally-facilitated processes offer a rich seam ,or more in-depth research. 2 Is There a Link Between Media and Good Governance? What the Academics Say, by Mary Myers . CIMA-Centre for International Media Assistance cima.ned.org/publications/there-link-between-media-and-good-governance-what-academics-say by Mary Myers CIMA-Centre for International Media Assistance 2 Is There a Link Between Digital Media and Good Governance? What the Academics Say, by Mary Myers. CIMA –Centre for International Media Assistance academia.edu/3749381/Is_There_a_Link_Between_Digital_Media_and_Good_Governance_What_the_Academics_Say 3 Ontario Municipal Act e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/statutes/english/elaws_statutes_01m25_e.htm
Posted on: Sun, 05 Oct 2014 04:30:45 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015