BBC World Service announces Emergency Radio Service for Gaza

BBC World Service announces Emergency Radio Service for Gaza

1 November 2023

BBC World Service announces Emergency Radio Service for Gaza

BBC News Arabic has today (1 November) announced an Emergency Radio Service for Gaza in response to the conflict in the region.

The emergency service – Gaza Daily – will broadcast vital news daily to the people of Gaza during this time of urgent need.

It will provide listeners in Gaza with the latest information and developments as well as safety advice on where to access shelter, food and water supplies.

Produced in Cairo and London and broadcast on medium wave, the service will initially run one programme a day at 1500 GMT from Friday 3 November. A second daily update will be broadcast at 0500 GMT from Friday 10 November.

The BBC World Service has a history of responding to emergency situations globally. Most recently, in May 2023 during the conflict in Sudan BBC News Arabic began an emergency radio service. In February 2022, the BBC News Ukraine service began extended TV bulletins following the invasion of the country. The BBC also previously launched a service for Gaza in 2014 following a summer of conflict.

Liliane Landor, Director, BBC World Service, says: “BBC News Arabic are extremely well-placed to offer this vital service for the people of Gaza at a time of greatest need. Their expertise and specialist knowledge of the region alongside the BBC’s reputation as the most trusted news provider, means we can reach civilians in Gaza with the information they need.”

Notes to editors: The Gaza service will be broadcast on MW 639kHz for morning and evening episodes.

[Source: BBC press release]

 

Al Arabiya Network launches Al Arabiya Business platform

Al Arabiya Network launches Al Arabiya Business platform

27 October 2023

Al Arabiya Network launches Al Arabiya Business platform

Al Arabiya Network, the Arab world’s leading source of news, announces the launch of Al Arabiya Business, a brand-new service dedicated to news and updates from the world of business, finance and more.

The launch of Al Arabiya Business comes in response to the growing demand for comprehensive and real-time coverage surrounding increasing and accelerating political events in the region and beyond necessitating more extensive and continuous coverage by Al Arabiya and Al Hadath TV channels around the clock.

Al Arabiya Business is available for free-to-air broadcast, as well as live streaming via Shahid, the world’s leading Arabic streaming platform, in addition to Al Arabiya Network’s website and YouTube.

Waleed bin Ibrahim Al Ibrahim, Chairman of MBC GROUP and Al Arabiya Network, stated: “Al Arabiya and Al Hadath’s commitment to extensively covering significant events in the region – including current events in Gaza – has driven us to introduce Al Arabiya Business, a platform primarily dedicated to business and finance updates. It’s widely recognised that the heartbeat of global financial markets never falters, even in the midst of conflicts and disasters. Our objective is for Al Arabiya Network to maintain its status as a trusted source for viewers seeking updates on economic and financial developments, all the while staying informed about the ongoing critical events in our region and worldwide.”

Mamdouh AlMuhaini, General Manager of Al Arabiya Network and Al Hadath, added: “The financial and business sector, as highlighted in our ‘Aswaq Al Arabiya’ [Al Arabiya Markets] programme, has garnered considerable attention from our viewers. In light of the upsurge in conflicts and significant events, especially in the Middle East and North Africa – such as the earthquakes in Turkey, Syria and Morocco, the war in Sudan, and the ongoing situation in Gaza – our viewers are increasingly eager to stay informed around the clock.

“As a result, we made the decision to launch Al Arabiya Business as a service dedicated to the latest updates, as well as streaming ‘Aswaq Al Arabiya’ as standalone segments, aligning with our commitment to cater to our viewers’ ever-evolving informational needs, be it in the realm of politics, economics, or the business sector.”

Al Arabiya Business is available via the following outlets:

[Source: Al Arabiya press release]

Simon McCoy to host the AIBs 2023

Simon McCoy to host the AIBs 2023

24 October 2023

Simon McCoy to host the AIBs 2023

Renowned journalist and news anchor will lead the 19th global celebration of journalism and factual productions

The AIBs, the prestigious awards that honour the best in journalism and factual productions, are thrilled to announce that veteran journalist and news anchor Simon McCoy will be hosting the AIBs 2023. The annual awards ceremony has been celebrating outstanding global journalism and factual content since its inception in 2005.

Simon McCoy, a respected figure in the world of broadcast journalism, brings his wealth of experience and charisma to the helm of this year’s AIBs. With a career in journalism spanning 40 years, He is one of the most recognisable faces in British television news. 

Simon started in television at ITV in London before moving to TV-am. He was part of the launch team of Sky News in 1989 before spending 15 years at the station, firstly as Royal Correspondent and then as one of their main presenters. His move to the BBC meant working on BBC1’s ‘Breakfast’ and the BBC News Channel. He was a regular presenter of BBC1’s weekend bulletins before becoming the main presenter of the BBC News at One. In 2021 Simon McCoy left the BBC to join GB News. 

As well as breaking news, Simon is also noted for making news, often going viral for his sometimes dead-pan delivery – whether outside a hospital waiting for a Royal Baby or trying to hide his indifference to less important news stories in the studio.

Simon now works as a production consultant – most recently for Washington-based Feature Story News as part of their training project at Doordarshan News Channel in Delhi.

The AIBs gala evening, a must-attend event for the journalism and factual production community, will take place on November 10, 2023. The venue for this year’s ceremony is the historic Church House Westminster, located just steps away from Westminster Abbey and the iconic Houses of Parliament, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for the celebration of excellence in the industry.

Each year, the AIBs recognise exceptional contributions to journalism, documentary, and factual content, with categories spanning various forms of media, including television, radio, digital, and podcasting. The awards bring together professionals from all over the world, fostering a sense of global unity and collaboration in the pursuit of truth and quality storytelling.

Simon Spanswick, the chief executive of the Association for International Broadcasting which runs the AIBs, said: “The AIBs are a testament to the dedication and innovation within the world of journalism and factual productions. We are delighted to have Simon McCoy as our host for the AIBs 2023, and we are confident that his presence will add an extra layer of distinction to an already remarkable evening.”

With a rich history of recognising the best in journalism and factual productions, the AIBs 2023 are set to be an unforgettable occasion, and the hosting talents of Simon McCoy will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the event.

For more information about the AIBs 2023 and to purchase tickets, please visit http://theaibs.tv.

RFE/RL Condemns Detention of Journalist Alsu Kurmasheva in Russia

RFE/RL Condemns Detention of Journalist Alsu Kurmasheva in Russia

19 October 2023

RFE/RL Condemns Detention of Journalist Alsu Kurmasheva in Russia

On October 18, authorities in Kazan, Russia, detained Alsu Kurmasheva, an editor with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s (RFE/RL) Tatar-Bashkir Service. Kurmasheva has been charged with failure to register as a foreign agent. The charge carries a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment.

“Alsu is a highly respected colleague, devoted wife, and dedicated mother to two children,” said RFE/RL acting President Dr. Jeffrey Gedmin. “She needs to be released so she can return to her family immediately.” Kurmasheva is a dual U.S. and Russian citizen who lives in Prague, Czech Republic, with her husband and children.

Kurmasheva traveled to Russia for a family emergency on May 20. She was temporarily detained while waiting for her return flight on June 2. Authorities at Kazan airport confiscated Kurmasheva’s U.S. and Russian passports. She was subsequently fined for failure to register her U.S. passport with Russian authorities. She was awaiting the return of her passports when the new charge was announced on October 18.

Kurmasheva is an accomplished journalist who has long covered ethnic minority communities in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan in the Volga-Ural region of Russia. She has reported on initiatives to protect and preserve the Tatar language and culture from Russian authorities, who have exerted increased pressure on Tatars in recent years.

Since 2012, Russia has used foreign agent laws to punish perceived government critics who receive funding from abroad or are deemed to be “under foreign influence,” including civil society groups, media outlets, independent journalists, and activists.

[Source: RFE/RL press release; photo credit Pangea Graphics RFE/RL]

Feature Story News joins Association for International Broadcasting

Feature Story News joins Association for International Broadcasting

17 October 2023

Feature Story News joins Association for International Broadcasting

Global news and connectivity provider becomes latest AIB member company 

The Association for International Broadcasting (AIB) is pleased to announce that Feature Story News (FSN), a global leader in providing high-quality news coverage and connectivity services to broadcasters and media outlets, is joining the organisation.

The AIB is the leading trade association for international broadcasters, content providers, and technology companies. It plays an important role in promoting the highest standards in international broadcasting, journalism, and content production, as well as sharing knowledge and expertise on key issues ranging from artificial intelligence to media freedom.

Through its membership in the AIB, Feature Story News will gain access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights. This partnership will enhance FSN’s ability to deliver even more comprehensive and in-depth news coverage to its clients worldwide.

Simon Spanswick, Chief Executive of the Association for International Broadcasting, expressed his enthusiasm for Feature Story News becoming a member: “We are thrilled to welcome Feature Story News to the AIB community. FSN’s commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and engaging news stories aligns perfectly with the AIB’s mission to promote excellence in international journalism. Through their membership, FSN will have the opportunity to collaborate with other leading media organisations, access valuable industry insights, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the future of international broadcasting.”

He further highlighted the benefits that Feature Story News will enjoy as an AIB member: “As a member of the AIB, Feature Story News will gain valuable insight to the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices through the AIB’s Working Groups. They will have access to a global network of broadcasters, content producers, and technology experts, which will enhance their ability to deliver world class news coverage to their clients. We look forward to FSN’s active participation in our events and initiatives and believe that their expertise will be a valuable addition to the AIB community.”

Feature Story News is excited about the opportunities that its AIB membership will bring and is committed to upholding the highest journalistic standards while contributing to the advancement of international broadcasting.

Simon Marks, FSN Chief Executive (pictured), said: “Joining the AIB is a strategic move that confirms FSN’s commitment to promoting excellence in international journalism and strengthening the company’s presence in the global media landscape. With over 30 “bricks and mortar” news bureaux across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia, FSN is relied upon by editors around the world to provide timely, accurate on-the-ground packages, lives, production services, and connectivity to enable them to serve their audiences with the highest quality tailored content from all corners of the globe. We are looking forward to taking an active role in the AIB’s activities as we continue to grow and support the global media industry.”

The AIB supports its members through advocacy, knowledge exchange, and research with special focus on artificial intelligence, cyber security, media freedom, and sustainability.

Freedom of information and media freedom at risk, says DG8 group of international public media organizations

Freedom of information and media freedom at risk, says DG8 group of international public media organizations

6 October 2023

Freedom of information and media freedom at risk, says DG8 group of international public media organizations

Montréal, CANADA — Trusted news and verified information from independent public service media has never been more important, nor more challenging to produce, warned the DG8, a group of eight international public media organizations, at the conclusion of its annual summit in Montreal, Canada.

As an increasing number of countries around the world censor independent media and violate press freedom, DG8 members called on international organizations to protect freedom of information and media freedom, both of which are essential to democratic societies and the protection of human rights. For example, more must be done to protect people’s right to Internet access and to curb Internet censorship.

Leaders from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the BBC World Service, CBC/Radio-Canada, Deutsche Welle, France Médias Monde, NHK WORLD-JAPAN, SRG SSR, and the United States Agency for Global Media met on October 4 and 5 in Montréal, under the presidency of CBC/Radio-Canada.

“Never has reliable news and information been so important and yet so under attack. In the face of growing disinformation, threats to the safety of journalists, funding pressures, and challenges to their continued existence, public service media must continue to demonstrate to their citizens that trusted, independent information is essential to a healthy society. The DG8 remains committed to addressing our common challenges, to better serve our publics and strengthen democracies around the globe.” Catherine Tait, President and CEO, CBC/Radio-Canada

In response to the challenges faced in the production and distribution of trusted news, the DG8 agreed to work together to address:

Misinformation and disinformation, which continue to proliferate. One response to these challenges is for news organizations worldwide to help audiences distinguish between what is real and what is fake. DG8 members each champion such efforts in different ways — some have adopted standards such as the Journalism Trust Initiative(JTI) certification from Reporters Without Borders (RSF), while others have focused on content provenance through initiatives such as the new Content Credentials standard. Launched in 2019, Content Credentials (originally called “Project Origin”) has evolved into an open-source, universal standard that is cryptographically secure, informing audiences when content has been altered or amended from its original state. This end-to-end solution was developed by an industry-wide group of content publishers, distribution platforms, and equipment manufacturers known as the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA). The group includes the BBC, CBC/Radio-Canada, The New York Times, Microsoft, Adobe, Omnicom, Publicis, Intel, Sony, and Arm.

News content blocking by intermediaries such as social media platforms and public authorities, which results in restricted access to audiences and decreased audience reach by public service media. The DG8 will monitor the policies and practices of digital giants such as Meta, which is blocking access to news content on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in Canada and phasing-out Facebook News in the United Kingdom, France and Germany. The DG8 will also study the impact of blocking access to public media content and consider the implications for other countries.

Increasing threats to journalists’ safety, which is contributing to a worldwide decline in media freedom. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 16 journalists have been killed so far in 2023, and 65 are missing. DG8 members will explore how they can respond more effectively, both individually and collectively.

The use of Artificial Intelligence in newsrooms. The DG8 will discuss establishing common standards and practices regarding AI.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) will assume the presidency of the DG8 in 2024.

 

The DG8 comprises eight international public service media organizations from Australia (ABC), Canada (CBC/Radio-Canada), France (France Médias Monde), Germany (Deutsche Welle), Japan (NHK WORLD-JAPAN), Switzerland (SRG SSR), the United Kingdom (BBC World Service), and the United States (U.S. Agency for Global Media).

Collectively, DG8 members generate more than 1.5 billion user contacts every week in more than 75 languages, giving them a significant journalistic impact worldwide. Through their delivery of professional, balanced and verified news and information, DG8 members are at the forefront of the fight against fake news, content manipulation and propaganda.