UNESCO promotes media pluralism and diversity, which are critical to an independent and free media landscape with diverse opinions and ideas.

Information is a public good, and independent media nourishes democracy by keeping citizens informed, increasing their knowledge of public affairs, brokering dialogue, and assisting them in understanding one another. Citizens who are well-informed and knowledgeable can actively participate in democracy and make informed decisions.

Our Challenges

Media Pluralism
Media Diversity
World Radio Day

Voice of women, local radio and gender equality in Burundi

Testimonies of rural women whose lives have been transformed with the creation of a local radio dedicated to women in the community. Radio Ijwi ry'Umukenyezi (Voice of Women) in Burundi is pushing back sexist stereotypes in its community and encouraging women to become active and independent through its broadcasts.

Facts and Figures

375
community media outlets

more sustainable thanks to policy reforms, and technical and editorial support.

1,700
media professionals from community radios

trained with technical and editorial skills (2018-2021)

Publications

Reporting on violence against women and girls: a handbook for journalists
UNESCO
2019
Translated into English with the financial support of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO
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