Media is an important tool for democratic accountability. A free, independent, plural and sustainable media can provide oversight of government and business activities; raise citizen awareness of issues that affect them; provide criticism of the powerful and elite; and act as a voice for the citizenry. The media receives special protection and special focus in good governance initiatives because an aware and informed public and a strong fourth estate is an important check on the power of government.

Georgia’s media today is mostly free, independent and plural but at times it is not sustainable, and many media outlets experience difficulties related to financial independence. Free advertising market in the country is vital for independent media outlets trying to fight against financial and political influences from different interest groups.

TI Georgia’s activities within the Promoting Independent Media Environment program will work to Update the Georgian Advertising Market report developed and published in December 2011 with financial support from IREX G-MEDIA program. This research will increase understanding of the media and advertising environment in Georgia; identify key problems in the media advertising market and propose recommendations to address these problems.

Project Consultant: Mathias Huter