Supporting Media Development in Armenia

Currently in Armenia, media plurality is hindered by informal practices as well as formal structures. The makeup of the regulating body over television and radio is politically influenced, the public broadcaster is in service to the ruling power rather than the people, and private TV stations are not truly independent. A healthy media will support democracy by representing a collective voice for the Armenian people, as well as allowing for individuals to hold government accountable as they gain access to accurate and relevant information. This project examines media assistance programs carried out in two other countries: Georgia and Moldova, to see what recommendations may be made for USAID Armenia. The strategy for answering this policy question involved four major components: 1. Literature review of implications of free and independent media on development 2. In depth review of the media landscape in Armenia 3. Case studies of major media projects completed in Georgia and Moldova 4. Interviews with 13 key informants from Georgia, Moldova and Armenia.