5 June 2008 – Halfway through the ‘European Year of Intercultural Dialogue’ – a procession of projects and events designed to improve respect and understanding between people of different nationalities, religions and ethnic origins – the European Union has commissioned a survey of best media practice in the field.

The Media Diversity Institute, the International Federation of Journalists and Internews Europe have joined forces to conduct the survey. They are looking for examples of good practice in the print, broadcast and online media which have challenged discrimination (on the grounds of national, racial or ethnic origin; religion or belief; disability; sexual orientation or gender identity; and age) and/or promoted diversity (in both recruitment and factual representation) over the last 5 years.

The UK media have much to be proud of in this field, and are frequently cited elsewhere in Europe as ‘market leaders’ for innovative approaches to inclusion and representation – both in terms of employment practices and output.

Examples highlighted in the survey – which might include policy initiatives, campaigns, features, individual programmes or programme strands, media literacy events – may be chosen to publicise best practice across Europe.

Access and complete the survey on www.media4diversity.eu and tell colleagues about this opportunity to showcase their achievements.

The deadline for contributions is midnight on Wednesday 18 June 2008. Any queries should be directed to Farid Littleproud [farid.littleproud@media-diversity.org] at the Media Diversity Institute.

Mike Jempson
Director, The MediaWise Trust

(Bulletin No 148)