EVALUATION OF PARTICIPATION OF HERB FRAZIER IN FY09 PRESS

UNCLAS PARAMARIBO 000372 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OIIP KPAO NS SUBJECT: EVALUATION OF PARTICIPATION OF HERB FRAZIER IN FY09 PRESS FREEDOM SSI REF: 09 PARAMARIBO 109 ¶1. (U) This cable is a program evaluation for the Strategic Speaker Initiative program bringing Herb Frazier to Suriname on September 14 - 18 to advise journalists and engage in activities surrounding press freedom. This addressed MSP Goal #1, mutual U.S.-Suriname appreciation and respect contributing to a more effective partnership. ¶2. (U) Overview and positives: The program's objectives were to assist Surinamese journalists in their ability to effectively cover high profile topics, with a focus on the general principles of transparency and accountability. In particular, the speaker covered how media self-censorship can detract from the democratic process and the media's role in educating and informing the citizenry, especially in light of the upcoming May 2010 elections in Suriname. The speaker offered one-on-one journalism counseling and - in his seminars - addressed the following topics: ensuring transparency and accountability through effective reporting, preparing for and reporting on high-profile or sensitive topics, and strategies for addressing various pressures to alter objectively reported news. The training took place in Paramaribo and Nickerie, Suriname's second largest city. Mr. Frazier received national print and broadcast media coverage, and was widely perceived as affable, knowledgeable, and entertaining. ¶3. (U) Mr. Frazier referred to the program as "a very enjoyable experience," and he was well-received by his trainees who effusively praised his training and, in Paramaribo, joined together to give him traditional Surinamese crafts as small tokens of appreciation. Post very much enjoyed working with Mr. Frazier, was impressed with his level of detailed preparation, and felt that he was able to nicely connect with Surinamers. Mr. Frazier was highly flexible when last minute changes occurred due to unforeseen circumstances beyond Post's control, such as delayed baggage and a canceled flight for his second leg into Guyana. ¶4. (U) Impact: The training received positive media coverage: at least four articles prominently placed in four national newspapers; at least two national radio broadcasts aired interviews with Frazier and the Pol/Econ/PD Officer; and at least five segments about the training appeared on national television broadcasts. Most importantly, the trainees organically generated ideas to maintain their press freedom, including the importance of working collectively together to maintain a certain level of journalistic standards. ¶5. (U) Post thanks IIP/S/SEG for their support and help in making the productive exchange possible. BELL