Live TV Presidential Debates

This media-based initiative uses various information and communication technologies (ICTs) - television, radio, the internet - to expose the public to information about presidential candidates, and to encourage reflection, debate, and transparency in the political process.

To begin, Internews provided NTRK with audio and video equipment, as well as specialised training for the production staff. This process supported the production of the live debates, which were scheduled to be broadcast live at prime time during the last week of the campaigning period - between July 4 and July 8 (when the election would be at the forefront of public consciousness). The six official candidates were paired off in 90-minute debates and were invited to participate in a final 120-minute debate among all six. Each was to be allocated equal airtime, and was invited to communicate in Russian or Kyrgyz language.

The strategy here involves using the media to allow the candidates to present their election platforms and give Kyrgyz citizens the chance to weigh each candidate's position on relevant issues; interactivity and participation are, thus, key elements of this initiative. Specifically, the debates include short TV reports and questions from an audience comprised of experts and representatives of civil society. Through a live connection, an audience in the southern city of Osh also asked questions.

In an effort to inform and involve as many citizens as possible, Internews planned to offer a subtitled version of the debates the following morning on the state TV channel. Other media was used to engage people in the election process: All debates were to be simultaneously broadcast nationwide on the state radio network. In addition, a feature on the Internews Kyrgyz Republic website featured updated information and statistics designed to enable the public to monitor election campaign coverage.

Political Development.

Since 1995, Internews Kyrgyz Republic has been providing support to independent mass media - approximately 20 regional, non-governmental TV stations and 25 radio stations. This support includes conducting seminars for media professionals, facilitating news exchange programmes, providing legal assistance, producing and distributing programmes, providing technical assistance, and awarding small grants. The mission of Internews Kyrgyz Republic is to foster the development of media freedom and to encourage the dissemination of objective and balanced information.