Print Media Colloquium: Aims and objectives Mr Norman Munzhelele Act DG: Communications 25 August 2016

2 Guiding Principles 1 Since the advent of democracy Government interested in a media that gives a voice to all South Africans. 2 Access to information, media diversity and the right to communicate helps to reduce inequalities; and ensuring social inclusion. 3 The Constitution of South Africa fosters an environment for inclusive communications for all South Africans. 4 Freedom of the press and the right of access to information are enshrined in our Constitution. 5 Government does not wish to see a deviation from this position

3 Consultation Department of Communications widely consulted and engaged in a fact-finding exercise regarding transformation. Key priority issues that have emerged through research and interaction with stakeholders 1 2 There is a need to protect and promote pluralism and how to address the challenges and opportunities. To put in place positive measures to promote media diversity. 3 4 Broad range of cultural expressions through the media, and the inclusion of minority groups in the media landscape. 5

4 Securing diversity and plurality of content and media ownership in a free and democratic constitutional state. Bringing together a broad range of stakeholders that can contribute positively to the debate on media transformation and diversity priorities. Looking at the entire value chain - print media ownership to printing press publishing, audit bureau of circulation, and distribution, research and advertising. Interrogate issues within the media environment to effect positive changes. Inform the policy development process. Aims and objectives The Colloquium is aimed at:

5 1 Transformation is ensuring media ownership and accountability in a free and democratic society. 2 Advancing Print Media Transformation and Print Media Diversity 3 Advancing content diversity. 4 Support to ensure effective transformation, accountability and diversity. 5 Sustained support to Community Media. Discussion to consider [1]

6 Discussion to consider [2] Aware of the current gaps in the Discussion Document. Input from the colloquium to help fill gaps and inform the Discussion Document 1 2 Discussion Document to be released later for public comment. Welcome written submissions directly to the Department of Communications. 3 4

7 The programme reflects the key issues that have emerged during our research and interactions with stakeholders. The panel discussions include: State of industry Media Transformation and ownership Community/small commercial media sustainability Promoting content diversity Regulation of print media Format of the Colloquium [1]

8 Format of the Colloquium [2] There will be 5 focussed breakaway groups: 1 Mandate, scope and capacity of state institutions in media transformation. 2 Print media regulation 3 Ownership, management and transformation 4 Community / small commercial media and sustainability 5 The terms of reference for the commissions will be presented later in the programme.

9 Concluding remarks We are looking forward to your active engagements during this Colloquium.