8 June 2005
ARTICLE 19 OFFERS ELECTION COVERAGE TOOLS FOR IRAQI JOURNALISTS
ARTICLE 19 has published a set of guidelines and briefing notes to equip Iraqi media with important information on covering elections. Commissioned by UNESCO, the publications aim to inform journalists about international free expression standards and best practices in election coverage.
Author Toby Mendel says they are tailored to an audience with little or no practical experience of the democratic process and can be used by journalists in other countries undergoing democratic transitions.
"Guidelines for Election Broadcasting" examines media self-regulation, restrictions on freedom of expression and media monitoring, and discusses the key obligations and responsibilities of the media during elections, such as the duty to inform the public and report in a balanced and impartial way.
The Briefing Notes provide an overview of international standards relating to media and elections, including voters' rights and the interpretation of opinion polls. Both publications are available in English, French and Arabic, with translation into other languages expected in the near future.
"Guidelines for Election Broadcasting" can be downloaded here: http://tinyurl.com/cyrks
For further information, contact Toby Mendel at: toby@article19.org
Other resources on election coverage:
- UNESCO Election Guide for Iraqi Media: http://tinyurl.com/cxxeu
- IMPACS/IMS Elections Reporting Handbook: http://tinyurl.com/e3a9k
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