The agreement, which represents Sida¹s first major partnership with a private sector organisation, will take advantage of WAN-IFRA¹s position, knowledge and expertise as the global association of the world¹s news publishing industry, in the defence and promotion of press freedom, quality journalism, editorial integrity and the development of prosperous businesses and technology.
The partnership will create and test new tools and methodologies for effective media development strategies to promote democracy and freedom of expression.
Activities include:
"For Sida, the collaboration with WAN-IFRA represents a new strategic approach, in cooperation with the private sector, in the promotion of democracy and freedom of expression," said Anders Nordström, the Sida general director. "Strengthening the management and economic independence of the media sector is of vital importance for domestic accountability. Only true independence can safeguard the media's watchdog function."
Timothy Balding, the co-CEO of WAN-IFRA, said: "Sida is known worldwide for its profound commitment to freedom of the press as a fundamental condition of good governance, democracy and development. We believe that this partnership will bring a new impetus and effectiveness to our joint media development initiatives, which are designed to help build financially healthy media enterprises as an essential condition for the existence of a free press. Sweden and its media industry have long been among the world¹s staunchest defenders of press freedom, and SIDA¹s commitment to developing free and independent media reflects the country¹s strong dedication to democratic ideals."