Democracy depends on a well-informed citizenry with access to diverse sources of information. In recent years, a wide variety of nongovernmental publications have emerged to provide NIS citizens with news and views from many perspectives. Despite the increasing variety of information available in the NIS, two obstacles continue to hinder the development of a truly independent press. First, most nongovernmental newspapers still rely on government-controlled printing presses and distribution systems. These government monopolies can be used to limit press freedom. Second, editors often lack the management skills necessary to operate their newspapers as financially viable enterprises.
To address these two obstacles, the Media Development Loan Fund and the Eurasia Foundation joined forces to create the Media Viability Fund (MVF). The MVF provides low-interest loans to establish independent printing presses, thus breaking the government monopolies. The MVF also provides long- and short-term training to help nongovernmental newspapers become independent by operating as profitable enterprises in a competitive market. Together, loans and training help change the way local governments and potential investors view the independent press.
The MVF has already achieved success by linking fledgling newspapers in the NIS with more experienced counterparts in Eastern Europe. This allows journalists and editors in the NIS to take advantage of the experience of those who have already overcome the challenges of working in a transition environment. The MVF has launched pilot projects in selected regions of Ukraine and Russia. As it gains experience, the MVF will expand to other regions.
For more information about the Media Viability Fund, contact our office: Media Viability Fund Burdenko 14A 8th Floor Moscow 119121 Russia
Telephone: 7-095-246-1020, 246-9982
e-mail: mvf@mvf.ru
