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                Communication by and for children:
	       An international development program

It all started at AMARC 5 in a workshop on radio and children. A
group of radio broadcasters worked enthusiastically to formulate
specific recommendations to the general assembly. The proposed plan
had three main components:

1.   to review and itemize what is being done in the realm of radio
     by and for children;

2.   to propose action to increase the quality and quantity of
     media space reserved for children;

3.   to create a network among communication broadcasters for
     children.

The committee stayed in touch and a formal proposal regarding the
project was made to the Canadian government. The first step - the
review - will be carried out mainly in West Africa. The proposal
also comprises broader co-operation prospects to increase the
presence of children in the media and involves four aspects:

Training: the proposal is for each country to train a team of
experts that can conduct communication activities aimed at
children.

Aid for production: national experts must be given at least a
minimum of support so that they are able to carry out productions
dedicated to children.

Setting up services reserved for children is urgent in some
regions. We are thinking particularly of radio to reach street
children.

Networking among broadcasters in order to have productions
circulate and to facilitate the pooling of experience and concerted
action. The proposal is to create a network of communication
broadcasters in children's programming.

Funds for an international program: the proposal recommends
establishing a specific source of funding for a communication
offensive for the benefit of children. For example, five million
dollars in funds from NGOS, foundations and institutions could be
of great service to the cause of children's rights.

A broadcasters' network

The first thing to do, which is not very expensive, is to create a
network among broadcasters so they get to know each other, exchange
experience and help each other. If you are among those who work
with children through the media, send us detailed information about
your work so that we can include you in the steps to be taken. Send
the information to InteRadio. Sign up for the network; we will make
up a directory and keep you posted.


Michel Delorme

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   This article is from InteRadio, Vol. 6, No.3., the newsletter
  of AMARC, the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters.
      InteRadio is published in English, French and Spanish.

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