RED Communication Center for research on Development Communication

Published purpose

This project aims to increase citizen and media participation in the development and implementation of Vietnam's economic policies. The project supports the work of journalists, in collaboration with civil society organisations (CSOs) and other stakeholders, to improve public accountability and transparency, and create a greater space for civil society and citizen dialogue. The project seeks to improve access to information, as well as the protection of journalists’ professional rights. It also strengthens the local partner RED Communication’s skills and knowledge in implementing and managing media strengthening projects and stakeholder coordination. Project activities include: (1) training approximately 250 journalists and members of CSOs on policy research and analysis, including gender and environmental impact assessments; (2) conducting a gender-disaggregated study on media and CSO participation in policy development, with a particular focus on economic policies; (3) producing communication tools to support citizen participation, including a website for policy feedback, one documentary film, and up to 300 media interventions such as articles, commentaries, and other forms of media coverage; (4) developing mechanisms to monitor media obstruction cases, producing and disseminating annual reports on media obstruction, and developing a gender-sensitive code of ethics on journalism with technical support from Canadian experts; and (5) providing training to RED Communication personnel in project management, leadership and institutional development.