Challenges for Latin American journalism

  • CAF launched a new publication which reflects the conclusions of an interesting discussion between journalists from the Andean region.
  • This is the most recent title in the series Periodistas Siglo XXI: espacios para el debate creador.

April 04, 2008

(Caracas, April 4, 2008).- The results of a virtual roundtable of journalists from Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, which reviewed the challenges facing the profession, are reflected in the publication Desafíos para la industria periodística en la región andina (Challenges for journalism in the Andean region). This publication is the most recent title in the series Periodistas Siglo XXI: espacios para el debate creador (Journalists XXI Century: spaces for creative debate) published by the Andean Development Corporation (CAF) and the Press and Society Institute (IPYS).

The virtual roundtable, part of the CAF Media Improvement Program, linked the countries of the Andean region and gave invited journalists the opportunity to review the challenges facing the profession. The discussion in this innovative format analyzed – away from the day-to-day routine of editorial rooms - the work of journalism and created a space for exchanging experiences on the challenges faced by the industry.

With a large dose of self-criticism, the debate revealed concern about the quality of journalism in the region, and emphasized efforts to contribute to excellence, overcoming obstacles and dealing with the natural challenges of the profession.

Improving the media

The objectives of the Media Improvement Program which CAF has been promoting for eight years are to contribute to the training of journalists, provide knowledge updating for reporters on CAF’s areas of action, and create a space for debate and analysis of the issues on the regional agenda. The general aim is to strengthen Latin American governance through one of its pillars: the media.

The results of this Program include participation by over 2,300 journalists, editors and directors, 80 workshops, six printed books published, and one e-book, 31 published reports, and 10 open talks in 19 cities in 13 countries.

The program’s activities take place in alliance with the Ibero-American New Journalism Foundation (FNPI), Diarios de America Group (GDA), Press and Society Institute (IPYS), Florida International University, and the Association of European Journalists (AEJ), among others.

Subscribe to our newsletter