A Framework for Promoting Diverse Visual Media Content in The Maldives

Abstract

The creation of visually diverse media content is significant in the context of Maldivian media landscape. This research aims to explore how it is possible to enhance the representation of Maldivian narratives and the connection to the local audience in the media content. Previous studies have found cultural and linguistic diversity, gender equality in newsrooms and the audiences’ interest in local news (Friedland et al., 2012) but there is a research gap that presents a framework for implementing these objectives. The need to develop a sustainable and open media environment for citizen journalists and creatives to produce meaningful and socially relevant content is the motivation for this research. To address the research questions of this study, data was collected using a mixed method through surveys to understand public opinion and the current state of media in the Maldives. The results indicate that local content is highly valued and that financial assistance for media practitioners is needed. Moreover, the research suggests the need to monitor and assess the quality of content, willingness to pay for quality content, ensure media freedom, and engage with the vulnerable groups. The implication of these findings also support the idea that the media industry has to embrace disability as an investment on the future workforce and active audience to gain its credibility.