GS Question

The McBride Commission of UNESCO, officially known as the International Commission for the Study of Communication Problems, was established in 1977. Its primary aim was to examine and report on communication problems in the modern world, particularly in the context of global media and their impact on cultural diversity, development, and peace.

The specific objectives of the McBride Commission were:

1. Analyzing the structure and flow of international communication and information and its impact on cultural identity, values, and diversity.

2. Examining the imbalances, inequalities, and asymmetries in the flow of communication and information between developed and developing countries.

3. Assessing the role and impact of mass media, including print, radio, television, and new emerging technologies.

4. Recommending measures to promote media development, access, and participation, particularly in developing countries.

5. Evaluating the professional, ethical, and social responsibilities of media practitioners and proposing guidelines to ensure quality and accuracy in reporting.

The McBride Report, produced by the commission in 1980, called for the democratization of communication and recommended steps to rectify the imbalances in global media flow. It suggested greater participation and control by developing countries in media production and distribution, along with measures to protect cultural diversity and promote media literacy.

India's position on the McBride Commission and its report was generally positive, as it aligned with the country's own aims and objectives. India, being a developing country, believed in the need for addressing the inequalities and imbalances in global communication. The report's emphasis on cultural diversity and media democratization resonated with India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Furthermore, India supported the idea of creating New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO) proposed by the Commission, which sought to challenge the dominance of Western media and promote more balanced information flows. India also emphasized the importance of media education and played an active role in promoting media literacy programs.

However, it is worth noting that not all countries shared the same opinions on the McBride Report. Some developed countries expressed concerns about potential restrictions on press freedom and feared government interference in media operations. As a result, the recommendations of the Report did not garner universal support and led to ongoing debates and discussions on media regulation and governance.