<HTML>
<HEAD>
<TITLE>Media Caucus input - CS benchmarks doc</TITLE>
</HEAD>
<BODY>
<FONT FACE="Verdana">Steve<BR>
<BR>
Thanks very much for the leadership on this statement. I think there was confusion from the outset on this statement about an essential benchmark as opposed to a key non-negotiable. It was regrettable that we did not have time to discuss it and I was most grateful to Rony for proposing a very reasonable benchmark.<BR>
<BR>
In terms of key non-negotiables, I agree that we should adhere to the text that we have agreed to and I like the paragraph you have fashioned (below) as is. Though, it does not mention self regulation of ethics or rights of media workers.....what do others think?<BR>
<BR>
Regards<BR>
<BR>
Tracey<BR>
<BR>
Steve’s proposal:<BR>
<BR>
"Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the touchstone <BR>
for an independent, pluralistic and free media. Media pluralism and <BR>
diversity should be guaranteed through appropriate laws to hinder the abuse <BR>
of media concentration. State controlled media should be transformed into <BR>
editorially independent public service organisations. Security and other <BR>
considerations should not compromise freedom of expression, media freedom <BR>
and access to information."<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
-- <BR>
Tracey Naughton<BR>
WSIS Partnership Manager (Southern Africa)<BR>
Chair Civil Society Media Caucus<BR>
201 Somerset Hall<BR>
239 Oxford Road<BR>
Illovo 2196<BR>
South Africa<BR>
<BR>
Phone/fax: +27 (011) 880 5030<BR>
cell: +27 (0) 82 821 1771<BR>
Email: t.naughton@iafrica.com<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
</FONT>
</BODY>
</HTML>