Local Media and Freedom of Information in Bulgaria
December 2007 – December 2009
Financed by: MATRA Programme of the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Project description:

The overall objectives of the project are to promote the process of transparency and accountability of the government and local authorities in Bulgaria; to contribute to the rule of law and democracy in line with the European standards, and to improve the flow and quality of public information. The project aims to increase transparency at local and regional level; to increase the knowledge and improve the skills of local media and journalists on applying access to information legislation, and to help build engaged society that holds authorities accountable.

Expected results:

1. Media and journalists understand and apply better their rights and obligations under access to information legislation;
2. Media and journalists are increasingly successful in obtaining public information by using access to information legislation;
3. Improved legal capacity of AIP for support to media;
4. Improved monitoring on use of access to information legislation by media and journalists;
5. The general public (especially on local and regional level) has improved knowledge on freedom of information issues and is actively seeking information.

Activities within the project:

1.Trainings for editors-in-chief and journalists from local and regional media
2.Legal advice and help to journalists in information cases
3.Creation of database and website with results from the use of the Acess to Public Information Act by media and journalists
4.Public awareness campaign led by AIP coordinators in the country (on local and regional level)
5.TV campaign about freedom of information and production of documentary Right to Know

The project will be implemented in cooperation with The Management & Media Academy/Free Voice.