IFJ consults on future of journalism

The IFJ World Congress debates in Spain in May 2010 plans to focus on the issue of how to deal with the media crisis, set out strategies for the future organisation of unions and help its unions reinvigorate the core mission of journalism.

With this in mind, the IFJ set up a group on the future of journalism following the decision of the IFJ Executive Committee in Paris on 15 November 2008.

The group is considering changes taking place in the world of journalism and plans to make recommendations to the IFJ on actions to be taken to review, strengthen and reinforce the work of journalists' unions. An interim report and recommendations will be drafted by the end of 2009 and will be finalised for submission to the IFJ Congress in Cadiz next year.

The IFJ is gathering additional information on these topics from all IFJ affiliates and other relevant groups and is seeking feedback on questions compiled, reflecting the main concerns or activity of organisations.

The future group is looking at the impact of change on following:

• Industry change and industrial relations
  
• Professionalism in journalism
  
• Journalism at work
  
• Why journalism matters and how we revive journalistic mission in a changed information environment
  
• The need for journalism education, media literacy programmes and clear understanding on the principles of access to journalism
  
• The role of unions in protecting and enhancing conditions of journalistic work

To view the questions go to http://africa.ifj.org.