Media Sustainability Index (MSI) - Europe and Eurasia

MSI Europe & Eurasia 2008

The Development of Sustainable Media in Europe and Eurasia

INTRODUCTION

I am pleased to introduce the Media Sustainability Index (MSI) 2008. The MSI 2008 provides an analysis of the media environment in 21 countries of Europe and Eurasia during 2007 and together with previous versions shows trends in the media sector since 2001. Since the MSI was first conceived in 2000 and launched in 2001, in cooperation with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), it has evolved into a key benchmark study to assess how media structures change over time and across borders.

Media plays a central role in the broader development agenda, not only in democracy and governance sectors, but also in fields such as poverty reduction, economic development, health, and conflict mitigation, among others. The MSI provides a tool that allows policymakers and implementers to analyze the elements of a media system and determine the most effective areas in which assistance can improve the free flow of news and information critical to development.

Of equal and perhaps greater importance, the MSI should be seen as an important tool for the media and media advocates themselves in each country and region. The MSI reflects the expert opinions of media professionals in each country. MSI results and analysis can inform the media community, civil society, and governments of the strengths and weaknesses of the sector. We encourage them to use the opportunity the MSI presents to continue their own vital efforts at developing independent and sustainable media. In some countries, their presence also serves notice to repressive governments that independent media has a continuing voice.

IREX would like to thank all those who contributed to the publication of the Media Sustainability Index 2008. Participants, moderators, authors, and observers for each country, listed after each chapter, provided the primary observations and analysis for this project. At IREX, Leon Morse managed the MSI with editorial and administrative assistance from Blake Saville. IREX staff in the region provided important logistical support and guidance. USAID has been a consistent supporter of the MSI, helping to develop the project and supporting its ongoing implementation. All are essential supporters of independent media and advocates for the MSI as an analytical tool for development professionals.

We hope you will find this report useful, and we welcome any feedback.

Sincerely,

Mark G. Pomar
President, IREX

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