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 Russia – new
Media in Russia is big business and big politics. Media companies are consolidating as they move into new media and new territories. At the same time independence is still questioned. It's all changing. ftm looks at media in Russia and its neighbors, includes Resources, 124 pages. PDF file (January 2012)
Press/Media Freedom - Challenges and Concerns
Press and media freedom worldwide is facing challenges from many corners. As authoritarian leaders impose strict control over traditional and new media with impunity, media watchers have concerns for democracy. This ftm Knowledge file accounts the troubles of this difficult decade. 88 pages. PDF (December 2011)
Europe's Radio - Western Europe
Opportunity meets tradition in Western Europe's radio broadcasting. Change has come fast and yet oh, so slowly. This ftm Knowledge file contains material and resources on public and private radio broadcasting in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands and Switzerland. 156 pages. Resources. PDF (December 2011)
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