|
|
|
The General Conference,
Recalling 25 C/Resolution 104, also contained in the Medium-Term Plan (1990-1995), which lays emphasis on the promotion of 'the free flow of ideas by word and image ... at international as well as national levels',
Recalling also 26 C/Resolution 4.1, in which it invites the Director-General 'to examine and pursue concrete measures to encourage the freedom of the press and the independence, pluralism and diversity of public, private and other media in all regions',
Bearing in mind the Declaration adopted by the Windhoek seminar on promoting an independent and pluralistic African press (29 April-3 May 1991), which stresses in particular that 'the worldwide trend towards democracy and freedom of information and expression is a fundamental contribution to the fulfilment of human aspirations',
Also bearing in mind the Declaration adopted by the Alma Ata seminar on promoting independent and pluralistic Asian media (5-9 October 1992), which invites UNESCO in its specific project proposals 'to encourage the development of journalistically independent public service broadcasting in place of existing State-controlled broadcasting structures',
Stressing the need, in this context, to explore more deeply the concept of public service by specifying the functions, particularly in the fields of education, science and culture, which it is meant to perform, and the means required,
Recognizing the experience acquired in this respect by many countries of different cultures and in different regions, and considering the opportunities for co-operation that could ensue,
Noting the urgent requests made in this respect by countries recently open to democracy,
Invites the Director-General to support and promote comprehensive
action focusing on the role and functions of public service, and in so
doing to take the advice of the international, regional and national professional
organizations concerned and of the National Commissions.