CSA – French Broadcasting Regulatory Body - www.csa.fr
Programme Description:
The CSA is the French Broadcasting Regulatory Body. In March 2006 a law concerning equal opportunities was passed that specifically discussed diversity in the French media. It gave the CSA authority to monitor diversity in broadcast media and to ban any discrimination in that field. In 2007 the CSA set up the Diversity Working Group to talk with broadcasters and define the most effective ways to improve how the media deal with issues of diversity. The group’s work led 16 of the most watched television channels in France to adopt specific policies to promote diversity and fight discrimination through their programming.
The CSA’ Diversity Working Group also led to the creation of the Diversity Observatory. Its role consists of monitoring, advising and guiding the work of the CSA. 11 members were chosen among experts in the fields of media, immigration and administration.
One of the Observatory’s first requests was for a wide reaching quantitative study of how the issue of diversity is being covered by national broadcasters. The study was commissioned due to the lack of data on diversity in the media in France. To guide the CSA on how to promote diversity the Observatory needed to have a picture of the current situation. The study was carried out over one week, across 16 national broadcasters. It gave the Observatory a snap shot of how minorities are represented on French television and therefore a basic understanding to work from.
Regular meetings are held so that the Diversity Observatory can assess the achievements of the CSA on reflecting diversity in the broadcast media. As the most popular type of media in France television broadcasters have a responsibility to their entire audience in all its diversity. The Diversity Observatory ensures that the CSA seeks the highest standards from them.
Challenge:
Lack of information on the current portrayal of minority groups on French television.
Solution:
By commissioning a first of its kind survey looking at the content broadcast on 16 television channels across France the Diversity Observatory began combating the issue of limited information on diversity in broadcast media.
Impact and Success Stories:
- 300 CSA employees have received diversity training.
- The results of the survey attracted a lot of attention. This broadened their reach even further and made the public aware of the need to diversify what they watch on television.
- With a clearer understanding of the diversity issues the CSA can do their job more effectively.
Quotes:
“We have seen a slight improvement in society on the issue of diversity but it remains far too general or simply just generous.” CSA
“CSA contributes to the promotion of social cohesion and the fight against discrimination in the field of audiovisual communication.” CSA
