Prospectus

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Media and Fundamental Rights

Course
2017-2018

Course Description

International Media Law as a discipline is, in many ways, a recent creation. It arose, initially, from concerns over freedom of expression in the aftermath of World War II, and its growth coincided with further advancements in technology as media industries (at the time, radio and television) expanded. The rapid changes in technology of recent years, including the convergence of media platforms and the growth of social media, have challenged some of the core assumptions of the discipline. In order to appreciate the current scholarly debate, one must first understand the development and transformation of the discipline over the last half century. This course will focus on constitutional principles, in particular fundamental rights, rather than solutions for technical problems that can change rapidly.

The following topics will be dealt with:

  • Freedom of speech and media freedom

  • Public service media and competition

  • Illegal publications

  • Data protection and media exceptions

  • Protection of journalistic sources

  • Newsgathering

  • Access to government-held information

A visit to a media organization, a ministry or a regulatory authority will be included in the course, so students will be able to discuss political and moral dilemmas with professionals from a relevant background.

Course Requirement

Master Degree

Assessment Method

  • Written exam (66,66%)

  • Written paper (argument or a judgement) (33,33%)