Activity Details (ID# 13132)

Activity Synopsis

The main objective of the seminar was to explain the legal European standards on the question of freedom of the press and freedom of expression and information, and to inform about professional tools concerning the coverage of democratic elections, taking into account the content of Recommendation No. (99) 15 of the Council of Europe on media coverage of election campaigns. 

After a brief introduction of JIA and participants, trainers presented a brief overview of the main activities of the Council of Europe in the field of mass media and media legislation in Ukraine.

First part of the programme was a lecture on the basic principles of covering elections with reference to the recommendation R (99) 15 of the committee of ministers of the Council of Europe. There were a lot of questions. Also the differences between the media situation in Western Europe and in Ukraine were discussed intensively. Because of their experience both trainers are well aware of the complex media situation in Ukraine which gave an extra dimension to the discussions.

Trainers presented examples of formats for political TV-programs in various countries. They also paid attention to programs that are not concentrating completely on political affairs but also contain other items. This was followed by presentations with suggestions to organise political debates during election time that are attractive to the public. Questions and discussions were the result.

During the afternoon session the participants got the opportunity to improve their skills in interviewing politicians. They also had to decide about the setting and the content. Unfortunately it was not possible to invite real politicians (because of for campaigning rules). Some of the participants however, managed to play the role of politician quite well. Participants found this exercise and especially the evaluation by both trainers and other participants very useful.

On the second day participants got the assignment to develop a complete new format for a political TV- or radio program. They were instructed to forget about formal rules and limitations in Ukraine. The should give priority to their creativity. The trainers were positively surprised by the results. The review of the presentations and the evaluation contributed to the very pleasant and active atmosphere during this seminar.

Final point on the agenda was a presentation about the practical challenges and problems journalists in Western Europe have to face during election times. He also gave some examples about the way radio and television are covering election day itself and the outcome of the elections. Some recent video material was showed. The effect of this presentation was a very lively and interesting debate.
 

The preparations by the local partners were very good. Unfortunately it was not possible to invite real politicians (because of for campaigning rules). Some of the participants however, managed to play the role of politician quite well. Participants found this exercise and especially the evaluation by both trainers and other participants very useful.

A brief evaluation round made it clear that all participants were very happy that they had been able to attend this seminar.
 

Most of them came from Kharkiv and surrounding region. Some others however, had travelled a long way (Odessa) to be able to participate. All participants were professionals working for a variety of radio- and television stations. 

Mr David van der Houwen, Streamline Consultancy, Netherlands
Mr Gie Meeuwis, journalism trainer, Belgium
 

Ms Lejla DERVISAGIC, Media Division, DG II