DOES MEDIA FREEDOM MATTER?
From September 19 through September 23, South Africans will be talking about the importance – or lack of importance - that the media plays in their daily lives. In an era of social media and Wikileaks, the proposed Protection of Information Bill and Media Appeals Tribunal, of tabloids and scandal sheets, what role does the media play? And what role should it play in a multiracial, democratic South Africa?
MEDIA & JOURNALISM STUDENTS AND SCHOLARS OF SOUTH AFRICA:
Academics from around South Africa are becoming increasingly worried about the state of media freedom in our country. As lecturers and academics, we are greatly concerned for the future of our students: we dedicate our careers to teaching you, so that you can pursue exciting futures in the media industry. The Protection of Information Bill and the proposed media appeals tribunal (amongst other issues), however, cast a bleak outlook for anyone wishing to enter the media industry in South Africa, particularly as a journalist.
We now ask for our students views on these matters.
We now ask for our students views on these matters.
Your voice matters! Use the comments function below to give us your views on some of the questions listed below!
• What is the responsibility of the media?
• Can South African media be trusted?
• What is the alternative to a free media?
• Should only good news be permitted?
• Is the media’s role to be the watchdog? Or is that a step too far?
• Does free media hurt or hinder economic development?
• What is the role of the media in developing democracy?
• What is the role of the press in a developing state or in promoting a country?
• Should only “black” reporters report on “black” issues?
• Who really controls what the media says?
• Is there too much opinion and not enough factual writing in the South African media?
Remember, after writing your response in the comments block below, please tell us which university or tertiary institution you are from.