ZAVEM – Advocacy for the Democratic Role of Media

Exercising the freedom of expression and information enshrined in Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union depends to a large extent on the media fulfilling their democratic functions: providing credible information, controlling the authorities and other centres of power, creating a space for public debate, and enabling the inclusion and representation of diverse groups and voices. This requires systemic conditions, both freedom and pluralism of the media, which in Slovenia do not guarantee the full exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information.

Needs: a. Strengthening civil society’s capacity for evidence-based advocacy b. Strengthening media literacy and empowering citizens, especially young people, to influence media policies and practices as active citizens c. Strengthening media self-regulation to enable civil society and citizens to influence compliance with standards of freedom of expression and information.

The programme will upgrade the monitoring of media policy, legislation and practice. Through new digital formats, the awareness of target audiences, the reach and impact of advocacy campaigns by working in alliance and involving citizens will be strengthened. Young people will be empowered to engage in media activism. We will strengthen own capacities to campaign and respond in crisis situations.

Activities: a) Media policy monitoring b) Media ownership monitoring c) Awareness raising and communication d) Capacity building for the applicant and other NGOs e) Programme management and coordination.

Target groups and users: media policy and decision makers, regulators, media community, civil society, academia, general public, citizens/young people.

Cover page graphic: Freepik