Hot Topic - EU Expansion
The European Union is again in expansion mode, reluctantly. After the 2004-2006 leap that added 12 new Member States, Southeast Europe - the Balkans - are the next logical step. But, as the famous poet said, “there are miles to go.”
That all politicians seek to control all media is an undeniable reality. Imperious politicians seek that control imperiously. Progress in press freedom remains illusive.
Big media is moving on. It’s the one constant even in times of turmoil. Broadcasters change, renew, adapt, fall flat, try again, win some, lose some. Executives take this change in stride. Recent corner office changes at big league broadcasters show just how much change is in the air.
Three countries are on the official list for EU enlargement. Five more are considered potential candidates. EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn reported this week on the progress… or lack thereof. Media issues loom large.
EU Expansion Commissioner Olli Rehn declared 2009 to be the year of the Balkans last week, a positive signal for Croatia. Two days later an important Croatian newspaper publisher had an unfortunate meeting with a car bomb. Croatia’s Prime Minister vows not to let his country “become another Beirut.”
Central and Eastern Europe continue to draw in strategic investors. Two major broadcasters announced acquisitions last week in Bulgaria. More could be brewing... or stewing.
Members of the European Parliament effectively thwarted Commission plans to bring big telecoms to heel. With less than a year before the next European Parliament elections and a new Commission before the end of 2009 telecoms have little to fear from increased European regulation. For media content producers it means more competition as telecoms keep consumer prices up and continue to invest in content.
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Western Balkans - the struggle for order and independence
ftm reporting explores media development and investment in Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia / Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia and Albania. Emerging from conflict broadcasters, publishers and governments face ghosts of the past to forge a new future. 40 pages PDF (October 2007)
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Flying Through Turbulence – Media in the New EU Member States
ftm reports on media in the 12 newest EU Member States. Will media find clear air or more turbulence? Country reports, company reports and broadcaster/publisher reports. 98 pages PDF file (February 2007)
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Media in Africa - Growing Pains – new
Africa's media has a dynamic all its own. Its newspapers, television, radio and advertising are world-class. New media is taking hold. At the same time, some governments seek blinding repression. This ftm Knowledge file looks at the great and not-so-great. Includes Resources 90 pages PDF (September 2010)
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Digital Radio - Possibilities and Probabilities – new
Digital radio has many platforms. From broadcast platforms to internet radio and rapidly emerging smartphone platforms, listeners and broadcasters have choices galore and decisions to make. Some regulators have made up their minds, others not, some hedging their bets. This ftm Knowledge file details the possibilities for digital broadcasting and the probabilities for success. Includes Resources 110 pages PDF (August 2010)
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Media in Germany
Home to Europe's biggest broadcasters and publishers, Germany is a highly competitive media market. Transition to digital television was easy, other media not so simple, unsuprising with Germany's complex regulation and business structures. This Knowledge file reports on media leaders and followers. Includes Resources 119 pages PDF (July 2010)
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