ACCURACY, PLURALISM, USEFULNESS: THE FOUNDATIONS OF TRUST
Credible and independent information is currently under threat worldwide. Millions of people confine themselves to personal information bubbles, paying no heed to public interest media. In the fragile areas where Fondation Hirondelle operates, reliable media is essential to the survival of populations facing multiple crises. How are our media able to win the trust of audiences in terms of their reliability, independence, and credibility?
In the Central African Republic, for example, Radio Ndeke Luka’s trust rating is over 80%. We believe that this is result of three related factors. Firstly, news must be accurate and relevant in its entirety, every day and on every subject. Secondly, dialogue between people with differing opinions must be moderated and professionally presented on all platforms, remaining neutral and retaining a high degree of accuracy. Lastly, readers, listeners and viewers want information that is truly useful to them. It is this combination of factors that enables Fondation Hirondelle media to not only retain their extensive audiences, but also to expand them. In this respect, 2024 was a good year, and I offer my heartfelt thanks to every member of our team.
Tony Burgener
Chairman of the Fondation Hirondelle Board
EXPERIENCE, STRATEGY, PARTNERS: ASSETS FOR WITHSTANDING THE STORM
The storm is here, and all the alarm bells are sounding. Governments—even Western governments—are challenging the independence of the media; international aid is being drastically cut; and freedom of expression is brandished without any of the accountability that comes with it.
In 2024, these alarm bells became increasingly strident, and the situation now appears worse than forecast. Unpredictability and unyielding positions are calling existing plans and strategies into question, making
it necessary to undertake new analyses in order to maintain relevance and remain in activity, especially in the public interest media sector.
Fondation Hirondelle is well positioned to meet this challenge, celebrating 30 years of experience in 2025 despite the challenges on the horizon. Our new strategy combines the strength and agility required to stay on
course and adapt to change; our locally based team is driven by the force of our conviction in the social and democratic role of the media; and we have committed and loyal partners. These assets are invaluable, and more essential than ever.
Caroline Vuillemin
General Director, Fondation Hirondelle