The McBride Commission, established by UNESCO in 1977, emerged from concerns about global communication imbalances between developed and developing nations. The commission aimed to democratize global information flow and reduce Western media dominance.

Status Quo Comparative Flow Diagram

Key Aims and Objectives of McBride Commission

• New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO)

  • Establishing balanced information flow between North and South
  • Reducing Western monopoly over global news dissemination
  • Creating alternative communication channels for developing nations
  • Promoting cultural diversity in media content
  • Ensuring two-way communication rather than one-way flow

• Communication as Human Right

  • Recognizing communication as fundamental human right
  • Ensuring democratic access to information for all nations
  • Protecting smaller nations from information imperialism
  • Promoting press freedom while maintaining cultural sovereignty
  • Establishing ethical guidelines for international journalism

• Development Communication Framework

  • Integrating communication in national development strategies
  • Building indigenous communication infrastructure
  • Training local media professionals and journalists
  • Supporting community-based communication systems
  • Linking communication with socio-economic development

India's Position and Support

• Strong Advocacy Through Non-Aligned Movement

  • Led NAM countries in supporting NWICO principles
  • Championed South-South cooperation in communication
  • Advocated for reduced dependence on Western news agencies
  • Supported establishment of Non-Aligned News Agencies Pool (NANAP)
  • Promoted alternative information networks among developing nations

• Policy Implementation and Initiatives

  • Established Prasar Bharati (1997) for independent public broadcasting
  • Launched News on AIR international services expansion
  • Supported South Asian Broadcasting Association formation
  • Developed indigenous satellite communication systems (INSAT series)
  • Created Indian Institute of Mass Communication for professional training

India continues advocating for digital sovereignty and equitable information access through initiatives like Digital India and promoting multilateral frameworks in global communication governance.