What do you think about TV and radio in the Maldives? In particular, what are your views about state-run stations Voice of Maldives and TVM?Some might claim that there has been genuine reform in the state media recently. This week a group of 7 NGOs launched a series of radio programmes called ‘Voice of Society’ on the state radio station ‘Voice of Maldives’. This is a real breakthrough for getting the voice of civil society heard with shows which will cover a range of subjects such as human rights, the role of civil society and promoting democracy. The first show was on Monday and shows will continue for the next year, aired at 8:45pm every Monday and repeated at 1:30am every Wednesday.
On the other hand, some claim access to state media and therefore access to inform a large proportion of the Maldivian population is still restricted. Especially in the context of the elections many believe NGOs, opposition political parties and outspoken individuals are not given sufficient air time in news and programmes.
What is your view? Do you think there are genuine changes in the state media?
Do you think coverage of issues related to the elections is open to all?
And what about the new radio stations, such as Dhi Fm, Faraway, Hfm and Capital? Do you enjoy their shows and do you think they are providing a fairer picture of Maldivian society?
6 comments:
some people may think that compared to the past regulations and policies the tv/radio is free. Unfortunately not specially tv yet. Most of the radio channels could be entertaining and fun for some youngsters. Though still non of the radio channels really address to the real problems in the society yet, to some extent they address to the social problems. Still there is a long way to go yet.......
TVM is trying to do a better job in both news and programming. Give them a break, it's not easy to change overnight from being an official government channel to more of a public service model. It hasn't helped that the broadcasting bill is still awaiting final approval so they can reorganize to better serve the needs of the public. They also need more qualified people who are willing to do the hard work of creating programs that are both free and fun. They are investing in training and trying to adopt the best practices of media in other democratic countries. You should have noticed some changes already, such as more coverage of the opposition. It's not perfect, but they are trying.
The NGO radio program is a good step in the right direction on the VOM side, allowing more diverse voices and opinions. Their news department doesn't really perceive a need to change. However, they are taking a risk that private stations will steal their audience.
The private stations are full of energy and creative people, especially DhiFm and Capitol Radio. Competition is good and will make everyone better. Ultimately, the audience will decide.
Radio is bearable and on the right path. but tvm suc*s big time. the changes brought to programing is just meaningless and superficial. in reporting potlics and politicians i'll give a zero. for instance they are showing zaeem every night on his campainge trip and tvm is letting zaeem use like his own tv station. my guess is that still news and programs are decided by PO. wonder why civil service commision is not taking any action.
HFM 92.6 is leaving everyone behind in their indepth coverage of news and politics. They are independent and showing a real promise for the future of media in the maldives. I hope they launch a tv station soon. I will be the first to tune in. Saeed.
i think Dhifm, has landscaped the maldivian media. They have introduced new trends to the local media. I would say Dhifm is doing a great job. Specially there unbiased reports of the maldivian politics.
mishal
i guess Dhi FM or HFM they don t ensure or is a free ticket for a independent media …both the channels belong to people with interests and agendas ..Of All its private broadcasting functioning with corporate sphere and we can t accept anything other than it serving as platform to put in the private interest of the business society…what do we accept as interest of champa or from the class mate of 28 year old dictator ..what’s missing and what we need here is regulations or a legislation that would ensure the independence of the public media i.e. TVM and VOM. And rather than making awareness programs NGOs rather should be playing a role in ensuring that the required regulation a put in place before the elections rather than by going on VOM or TVM enabling the government to create an image where they portray themselves independent despite such regulation or legislation. It my sincere hope that OSA plays a role in campaigning or voicing out for a call to make TVM and VOM independent.
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