Russia and United States team up in Afghanistan

After reading the New York Times and MSNBC, it is interesting to learn that many of the issues relating to the Cold War still exists today between Russia and the United States. Examples relating to the articles include “Kyrgyzstan Says It Will Close U.S. Base” and “Russia: We'll help U.S. stabilize Afghanistan.” The president of Kyrgyzstan, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, was in Moscow in order to gain financial support as a result of shutting down the U.S. air base.
The country of Kyrgyzstan is in debt to Russia, yet they were receiving more than $2 billion dollars from them. As a result, the base, that was vital to the U.S. in Afghanistan territory, was closed in Kyrgyzstan. Although there were several American troops at the base, which opened in 2001, Kyrgyzstan needed Moscow’s approval. Unfortunately, Russia was bothered by the fact that Americans had a presence on the air base. This situation relates back to the Cold War and the different way of thinking between countries; democracy versus communism. Along with communist Russia, China was not thrilled with the U.S. presence at the air base.
Although there is some tension between Russia and the U.S., the two countries, along with others will cooperate together in order to fight terrorism in Afghanistan. Relating back to the Cold War theory, Russia feels that Afghanistan is becoming too much of a democracy as a direct result of the United States.
Along with working with Russia, Barack Obama is working with Russia on the missile defense issues in the Czech Republic and Poland. Therefore, with possible tension arising between two leading countries, the U.S. and Russia, global security could unite the two, despite their differences.

- By Rachel Rovner

Welcome to the Media Monitoring Blog

Welcome to the Media Monitoring Blog of media systems around the world. This is an effort by the students of mass media to contribute to the understanding of national media systems. This semester we will be focusing on eight countries:

• Burma
• China
• Croatia
• Iran
• Italy
• Mexico
• Thailand
• Russia

Every week, students who are responsible for each of the countries would post a commentary, analysis, observation, historical fact, quote, video clip, newspaper article, etc concerning the media system on this blog. Most postings would likely to be inspired or prompted by something that has happened, is happening or likely to happen in that particular country.

As we know, a media system consists of many elements and is constantly being influenced by many factors including:

• The Cultural Characteristics (culture, religion, political heritage, etc) of the country
• The Media Philosophies of the country
• Media Law and Regulations in that country
• The various ways of Financing of media and the Ownership of the media
• The issue of Accessibility (related to Distribution) of the media
• News Reporting and Journalistic Norms of the country
• The Import and Export of the Media (related to Diversity of the Media)
• The Audience or the local consumer
• The Media Content itself (print, broadcast, Internet, new media, etc)
• World events, other national media systems, etc

Therefore, we can expect the Media Monitoring Blog to be a holistic and multi-faceted exercise in order to present a clearer picture of the particular media system.

How to navigate the Media Monitoring Blog:
Each posting will be labelled and these labels work as keywords for the reader to search through the blog. You would likely find the following keywords on the sidebar of this Blog:

Italy, Iran, Thailand, China, Russia, Mexico, Burma, Croatia, etc

Media Content, Laws, Population, Culture, Language, Banned, Putin, Audience, Radio, Television, Internet, telenovela, Film, Blog,YouTube

Therefore, a reader looking for something related to Youtube being banned in Thailand would look for keywords (located on the siderbar of this Blog) such as:

"Thailand"
"Internet"
"YouTube"

and click on one of these keywords to find the relevant link.

Have fun reading and blogging!

Ming Kuok, LIM
Course Instructor

How to make a good blog post

Venezuela: Chavez wants to rule till 2021

Things are heating up on the re-election front in Venezuela.

The Venezuelan constitution currently limits a candidate’s presidency to two 6-year terms. President Hugo Chavez, whose second term is up in 4 years, is calling for an end to presidential term limits.

According to this article, President Hugo Chavez is again “giving his people the authorization” to move toward amending the constitution, though, he says, the people ultimately have the right to decide if they want the amendment.

This isn’t the first time Chavez has called for term amendments. Shortly after the beginning of his final term in January, 2007, he began talks of removing the limits. The referendum was ultimately defeated after 51% of voters rejected the proposed amendment.

But Chavez, now with his popular support standing at 55% one year later, is proposing the constitutional amendment again. And according to the Economist, “Chavez says the legislation will be the start of a new era of ‘maximum revolution’ during which he will consolidate Venezuela's transformation into a socialist society. His critics, however, are calling it a radical lurch toward authoritarianism by a leader with unchecked power.”

-- by Hannah Morris

Chavez Calls Out Journalist-Venezuela Group

Hugo Chavez called out two journalists leading up to a local election in Venezuelan on November 27th claiming that his statements were decontextualized and that Chavez does not censor the media, according to this article.

Chavez said that Patricia Janiot, a CNN correspondent, misconstrued a statement that Chavez would "bring tanks into the street" if he were to lose a recent election.  Chavez requested that Janiot explain what he really meant, and then proceeded to blame her superiors at CNN for the story.

Chavez also said CNN reporter Glenn Oman was wrong when she said that Chavez ordered an "information probation" during the elections, and that no such order was ever provided.

This is yet another example of how Chavez likes to control his political image, and his control by controlling the media, especially whenever anything negative is said about him, his regime, or both.  Calling out CNN and credible journalists is second nature for Chavez.  It is actually surprising that such was reporting was even printed for the public to read.

By Mike Ramsing

Russian Media "Biases"

It is an interesting time to be following the Russian media and the case of Anna specifically. This past week a few articles were published concerning the biases that Russian media uses. In this article journalists accuse the Russian media of bias favoring Russia in the Russian-Georgian conflict. In another article that was published concerning the current economic status of Russia, it is obvious that the Russian people agree that the media is not covering stories as objectively as possible. Given the history and the circumstances that Russia has seen in the past regarding censorship and a media system that is not considered free from a global perspective this was to be expected. However, it is notable that specific journalists such as Julia Latinina are accusing Russia of biases directly given the fate of other journalists who have been critical of Russias policies.

The story in the link above offers little hope that Russia is leaning toward a more democratic state in which journliasts are free to be critical of the government and policies that the people of thet state may not agree with. A fair and balanced press is one of the most important and useful tools of a democracy and it is sad to see countries that do not have this freedom. Even scarier is the violence and fear described by Mikhail Beketov. He even calls the job "suicide." The biases shown in the media can be explained if that is the retaliation that can be expected with critical reporting.

Hopefully after the trial of the people responsible for the death of Anna Kachkayeva, a new light will be shined on Russia's policies towards the media and change will come and journalists will not be forced to be bias and information will flow freely in Russia. In a developed "democracy" no journalists should have to live daily life in fear because of their everyday job.


-Alexa Sell

Venezuela- The enemy of my enemy is my friend

History was made as it marked the first time a Russian president visited Venezuela Wednesday the 27th. President Dmitri Medvedev visited Venezuela to discuss a wide variety of issues ranging from a setting up a Nuclear Reactor to exploring the possiblity of Russia joining the Venezuelan trade group ALBA.

It seems Russia and Venezuela are obeying a golden rule to politics 'The Enemy of my Enemy is my friend'.
With both countries on poor terms with America they alliance they form is not a good thing at all for the US. It appears Russia is trying to replace the US as a 'mentor' to South America. By joining the Chavez lead trade group ALBA which features; Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Bolivia, Dominca, and Honduras, Russia is in good position to act as that mentor and gain more support from the rest of the continent.
I believe Russia is also trying to 'return the favor' to the US from the 'Charlie Wilson technique in Afganistan by providing the Venezuelan military with training and Nuclear capablility it makes them a legitimate threat to the US.
The scariest part of this alliance is Chavez plans to reach out to China next to join the ALBA organization. Hopefully Washington DC is paying close attention to this and comes up with an idea to prevent all the countries with any trace of anti-American'ness' from joking together.

Rwanda: Media Has Bright Future - Media Council

This article discusses the future of journalism in Rwanda. Efforts are being made by the government to improve journalism in the country, for example they plan to move the school of journalism from the National University of Rwanda in the Southern Province to the capitol city of Kigali. Also, the article talks about the importance of investing in the media. The Executive Secretary of the High Council of the Media, Patrice Mulama, along with the government, believe that if people invest in the media, it will improve the standard of journalism. Also, investing in the media would overcome most challenges that go with capacity to human resources. All of this was discussed at the media conference at Serena Hotel. Also discussed at the conference was the concern about the lack of financial resources. According to the article, "the conference's main objective was to promote sustainable, professional and responsible media, strengthening and expansion of media freedom in the countries of the Great Lakes Region."

I think that it is very important for Rwanda to take the necessary steps to improve the countries media. Moving the school of journalism to Kigali is important because it is where "most journalism practitioners are located and operate from." This is beneficial because students will be familiarized with the environment that they will be working in after studying. I also think that it very important for investors to support the media. The media in Rwanda will not improve and flourish without financial backing. Money is needed for the media systems to expand. In the past, the government has hindered the development of the media and freedom of the press for journalists. It will be crucial in the future for the government to work with and support the media to improve the standard of journalism.



By: Stefanie Merrigan

Midterm Election Update

Most of the headlines I found this week covering the results of the Venezuelan midterm elections last Sunday had similar messages: "Mixed results in Venezuela election"

I found one interesting article, however, by The Washington Post that explained very distinctly how the elections last Sunday could seriously hurt Chavez's future power in Venezuela...

Some politicians who are known to publicly criticize Chavez were voted in by people living in poverty (who once voted for the current dictating president).

Although the article focuses on the limits the new governing body may put on Chavez's economic and oil policies, I think this could be a positive and exciting time for the media system struggling to survive in the nation. If these politicians are realizing the problems Chavez is causing for his country economically, hopefully they will see the blockades he builds around journalists and their ability to cover the news.

This quote stood out to me the most while reading the article:
"The setbacks add to a list of growing problems for Mr. Chávez that are likely to slow his swagger."

Here's another link to the story: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122748432718751705.html?mod=googlenews_wsj


Posted by: Bridget Monaghan

Journalist's murder puts Russian justice on trial

This article talks about the continuing trial for the murder of Anna Politkovskaya. This week, the trial of the three men (two Chechen brothers, Dzhabrail and Ibragim Makhmudov, and a former police officer, Sergei Khadzh-ikurbanov) accused of assisting in the murder- though not of the actual murder itself- begins. Stated in the article: "...critics say, [the trial] has worked more to illustrate the farcical nature of Russia's justice system, and how little is expected to change during the reign of [President Dmitry] Medvedev, himself a former lawyer." A lawyer, Murad Musayev, for the brothers said that the prosecution declared that Politkosvkaya's murder was ordered by a Russian politician without giving a name.

I found this article to be interesting and relevant because it illustrates the constant controversy surrounding Anna's murder. Two years later, justice has still not yet been found. As was mentioned in the article, this trial really demonstrates the absurd nature of Russia's justice system, which in a way reflects upon the country's press freedom as well. I think the outcome of this trial could be very telling of whether or not Russia is moving towards any positive changes in the areas of the justice system and press freedom.

By Lauren Chapman

Son of slained Russian journalist says she was threatened for years

Anna Politkovskaya was gunned down entering her home from a shooping trip. her children revealed that Anna had been threatened for nearly five years prior to her death because her reports were leading to criminal investigation. Four men now stand trial for the murder, but the gunnmen is still yet to be revealed. Also, four days proir to her murder the gunnmen had been entering her apartment building and loitering around passing Anna almost everyday. On the day Anna was murdered the gunnman was seen entering the building and exited the premises 1 minute after the fatal gunshot was fired. Today it is believed that a Russian politcan based in side the country is responisble for the murder of Anna Politkovskaya.

Iran’s 100-Second filmfest to become intl. event

TEHRAN -- Organizers of Tehran’s 100-Second Film Festival plan to convert it into an international event.

A number of foreign films have been slated to compete in the two-day event, which will commence on February 19, 2009.

The motto of this year’s festival is “Interrogative Cinema”, the secretariat of the festival Fazel Nazari mentioned during a press conference on Sunday.

He went on to say that the festival will have four sections namely Culture, Economy, Society and Resistance.

“The undeniable role of media in modern world will be explored in the Culture Section of the gala,” he added.

In the Economy section, art is considered from the aspect of economy since like culture, it has an important role in art. The Social section of the gala will focus on sacrifice and philanthropy as essential elements in human societies, he mentioned.

The Iran-Iraq war (1980-88) is a national honor which will be reviewed in the Resistance Section of the festival. The young generation should be acquainted with these values, he mentioned.

“We held several workshops in other countries including Azerbaijan, Turkey and Syria in order to introduce young filmmakers with this festival,” the Executive Secretary of the gala Behnam Bahadori said during the conference.

He went on to say that several countries including Turkey, Azerbaijan, Lebanon, Syria and Cyprus will take part in this edition of the festival.

The 100-Second Film Club is established on the sidelines of the festival, which will be attended by renowned artists. Also, the festival will hold workshops, he mentioned.

At the conference, the Deputy Director of the festival Hossein Rabbani Gharibi said that the jury of the festival is comprised of three groups: experts, juniors and experienced cineastes.

“The festival will also hold a Free Section in which only foreign filmmakers can participate,” he concluded.

--------------------

It's awesome that Iran is trying to expand their media base and opening up their 100-Second Film Club to become an international event which in my opinion is saying they are trying to be a less strict media regulating country. The only problem I can see with this is that Iran will start to sanction rules in order for other countries to participate. This might involve rules regulating freedom of speech but maybe Iran will surprise us all.
-Meka Brooks

Venezuelan Polls Open

Today marked the opening day for polls in Venezuela to elect local governors and mayors. Many articles around the world are determining this election to be somewhat of a popularity contest for Chavez and his leftist party. Today is also marks a year after Chavez lost a referendum on extending his authority. According to The News International website, "Famous for his fiery language, Chavez has threatened to imprison opponents, or even send tanks onto the streets if his party loses in the populous northwestern state of Carabobo (on Sunday)." Although no results have come in as of yet with who has won the election, I think today's polls will determine the future of Venezuela and Venezuelan media. Check out some more articles on the elections here: http://www.silobreaker.com/DocumentClusterReader.aspx?Item=16_928225798
(notice you don't see any articles coming from Venezuelan reporters!)

-- Bridget Monaghan

Thaksin to announce return

Former Prime Minister Thaksin has announced his return to Thai politics on December 14. He has said he will no longer sit back and wait to be attacked and would rather fight for his name than sit around taking heat and not fighting for himself. Unfortunately for Thaksin, this will cause some change to his personal life, as he and his wife made an agreement that they would separate had he returned to politics. It appears that they plan to hold true to this agreement.

-Jared Besecker

Protesters gather as tense Thailand prepares for 'last battle'

This is interesting as the Thai government has been going through a rough patch very recently and since Thaksin has been overthrown. Thousands of protesters gathered today as a final push for their 6 month long campaign to bring down their current government. Many have already died in the attempts, and protesters have pointed the finger at the government, but the government denies any sort of ties to the violence that has partaken towards the protesters during this long period.

-Jared Besecker

Russia: Activists Demand Probe Into Russian Journalist's Savage Beating

Once again, people who cared for killed and assualted journalists in Russia are writing President Dmitry Medvedev about pushing their investigation. Russian journalist Mikhail Beketov was found unconsious outside of his neighbor's home early morning of Nov. 13. He was brutally beaten, which forced the amputation of one of his legs and remains in serious condition.
Beketov was a editor of a paper that features critical articles against local authorities in Khimki. He has received death threats in the past, and last May his car was detonated.
This request for an investigation is becoming common, like the one asked for the investigation of Anna Politikovskaya's death. It is apparent that the government isn't concerned with finding the suspects for these incidents which makes us suggest that maybe the government has something to do with the cases.

Ashlee Newcomb

Communal Banks Receive big boost

Chavez's latest plan is to give a large sum of money to local banks to help the faltering economy around the world. By doing this Chavez may be helping out the banks in the short run but he is also going against a major principle of democracy which is a nation should have a weak central government. Bailing a country out in a time of need is a good plan with a lot of benefits but eventually the country will be too reliant on the government and lose the capitalistic structure that allows democracy to thrive.

Press and public unable to attend Politkovskaya murder trial

“Allowing the public and press to attend the trial is a good decision, given the importance of the case,” Reporters Without Borders said. “The murder victim was an outspoken and independent journalist who dedicated her professional life to making the public aware of aspects of reality that many people would have liked to cover up. We have a debt towards here. We owe her transparency in the investigation and in the trial of her murderers.” (Reporters Without Borders)

Yevgeny Zubov, the presiding judge in the trial of four men for the 2006 murder of Novaya Gazeta reporter Anna Politkovskaya, has ruled that he will not allow the press or public to sit in during the trial. Two days before this ruling he posted the opposite, saying that press and public were granted access to the courtroom. Zubov claims that the jury had requested this action, saying they would not enter the courtroom as long as press were present. In an interview for independent radio Echo Moskvy today an anonymous juror denied claims that the jury itself had requested the press and public be banned from the hearings. He said they were presented with a document that if signed the press would be banned from the courtroom, but none of the jurors agreed to sign the document. This is just another sick twist in the case of Anna Politkovskaya and the four men on trial.

Iran News show

Student Enrollment

0-Fold Rise in Student Population

Minister of Science, Research and Technology Mohammad Mehdi Zahedi said on Sunday Iran’s student population has increased by 20-fold since the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979.
“Early in the revolution, 170,000 out of a population of 35 million Iranians were students but today there are some 3.5 million students. This means that the student population has grown by 20 times,“ said Zahedi in a meeting with a group of American deans and Universities, IRNA reported.
Zahedi noted that girls constitute 60 percent of the state-run universities’ students and 51 percent of other Iranian universities’ students.
“At the beginning of the revolution, there were PhD courses for 10 branches of sciences but now there are PhD courses in all branches of science,“ he said.
Zahedi also said some 500 international-level scientific articles and essays were produced annually in the early years of the revolution but the number of Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI) articles stood at 13,000 in 2008.
The same number of articles was published in other reputable magazines, showing a rise of 52 percent.

I found this interesting because here at Penn State we look at over enrollment as a problem and take it for granted that a lot of us can enroll anywhere we want. to jump from 170,000 to 3.5 million is a great accomplishment. Another interesting fact is that women made up the highest percent of college students, Iran is one of those countries that is expected to keep their women at a lower level than men but these results prove them wrong.

-Meka Brooks