Workshop on media’s role in democratic transformation [Archives:2006/928/Local News]

SANA'A, March 12 ) As part of the Democracy Assistance Dialogue, the Human Rights Information & Training Center (HRITC) organized a workshop Saturday on media's role in democratic transformation.

At the beginning of the workshop, HRITC General Manager Ezziddin Al-Asbahi spoke about such dialogue from the civil community's viewpoint. Yousef Abu Ra'as, the civil community organizations program coordinator, then briefed attendees on the dialogue.

Abu Ra'as said the program works to enhance current democracy and establish new democratic programs. According to him, it gives participants the opportunity to improve their joint activities and enhance democratic institutions' abilities. It also seeks to facilitate exchange of experience between civil community organizations and other parties.

Dr. Ahmad Al-Wihaishi, program coordinator for the government, said democracy in Yemen still is developing and that democracy is the only option for driving Yemen onto a safer track.

Many media personnel attended the HRITC workshop, which came up with the following findings:

– The government controls most leading posts in media institutions.

– There is no apparent right to obtain information.

– Penalties are imposed due to publication bans.

– There is lack of training for journalists.

– Journalists experience deteriorating living standards in various media institutions.

– The journalism profession must be organized.

– The government controls official media.

– Media is privatized and its ownership is transferred to employees.

– Legal freedom of press lacks enough support and promotion.
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