Ecuador: Strengthening quality journalism

A day after the February 17 reelection of President Rafael Correa, journalists, university deans and representatives from non-governmental organizations met at the Universidad Católica in Quito. There they discussed quality journalism, the role of the media, journalism training and current labor conditions for Ecuadorian media workers. The session was hosted by DW Akademie together with the BMZ, the German Embassy and the GIZ.

Oliver Pieper, DW AKademie and GIZ, Ecuador

The prime focus was on the role international cooperation plays in promoting quality journalism. Hans-Jürgen Beerfeltz, State Secretary for Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, called for support and commitment. "Freedom of opinion is an inalienable human right. Respecting, protecting and guaranteeing human rights are the basics and the goals of development, and they're the guiding principles of Germany's development policy. That's why we assist those who stand up for these rights - in Ecuador and across the world."

The session also focused on DW Akademie as a media development organization. Beerfeltz stressed the importance of the cooperation between DW Akademie and BMZ. "DW Akademie's experience and expertise make it our prime partner in promoting those who, in their own country, support freedom of expression and media development."

Ecuador-based Oliver Pieper hosted the discussion. He is working on a long-term DW Akademie and GIZ project which coaches two universities in developing practice-oriented curricula and supports four local radio stations in journalistic and organizational-related questions.