Media Training in Transition Countries Perspectives of a Media Trainer

This book explores the impact of, and lessons learned from, media development and training programs sponsored by the US government and non-governmental organizations in countries transitioning to democracy. Recognizing the importance of establishing a free press and a free market economy in newly democratic societies, this book examines the training of journalists and media managers in selected countries in Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Drawing on the author’s and other media trainers’ experiences over a 25-year period, this book provides important insights into tailoring training programs to specific regions and countries. Case studies describe training in radio and television management, broadcasting, and media sustainability, and are contextualized against the cultural and historical backgrounds of each region. Media Training in Transition Countries will be of interest to media trainers, government and nongovernment agencies, and scholars and students of international journalism and development.

1. Brief History of International Media Training 2. The Balkans 3. Russia and Post Communist Countries in Eastern Europe and Eurasia 4. Africa 5. Middle East 6. Asia 7. The Caribbean and South America 8. International Media Training in the United States 9. Final Perspectives: Lessons Learned

Sam Swan is Professor Emeritus of Journalism and Electronic Media and Former Director of Global Programs for the College of Communication and Information at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He has been a leading international media trainer since 1996, conducting over 150 international media training programs in over 50 countries.