[6]The Ukraine Media Partnership Program (UMPP) develops the Ukrainian media sector’s professionalism and sustainability by creating and fostering long-term professional relationships between U.S. and Ukrainian media outlets via exchanges and individual consulting.
UMPP partnerships have focused on improving the quality of journalism, strengthening websites, and building stronger business management practices. UMPP was launched in 2002 with funding from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the US Department of State. Since 2005, the Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy in Ukraine has funded the program.
• Enhance the business and journalism skills of independent media to improve sustainability and professionalism
• Expand Ukrainian media's positive role in informing citizens about political, economic, and social issues
• Develop strong partnership between Ukrainian and U.S. media outlets to foster longer-term relationships for advice and consulting after program activities end
Although the 2005 Orange Revolution created more space for independent media in Ukraine, many independent regional media outlets continue to struggle with issues of professionalism and financial sustainability. Outside Kyiv, they often face strong competition from much larger state broadcasters. In an effort to bolster independent media, UMPP provides these outlets with the knowledge and tools they need to become strong players in their media markets.
• Partnerships Between U.S. and Ukrainian Media Outlets: IREX pairs Ukrainian media organizations with U.S. media organizations for mutual staff exchanges. The professional interaction enhances the skills of the Ukrainian partners through practical, on-site collaboration, and the sharing of best practices in the following areas:
• Business Management—including advertising, sales, distribution, and human resources
• Journalism—including community journalism, investigative reporting, audience interaction, and coverage of political, economic, and social issues in the community
• New Technologies—including Internet, mobile phone communications (SMS), and video- and audio-streaming software
• Internet Training: UMPP provides expert consultants to participating media outlets for training and assistance with Web site design and maintenance, professional sales presentations and online journalism.
• Since 2002, UMPP has hosted 139 Ukrainian journalists and media managers in the United States from 25 newspapers, TV, and radio stations.
• The Ukrainian outlets have worked with more than 20 media outlets across the United States, from which more than 80 American journalists and media managers traveled to Ukraine to consult with their partners.
media@irex.org [7]