The selection process for the BBC’s next Director General has been debated and carried out behind closed doors with the public having no input in the decision making process. Given the influence of this paramount position, how might the process be handled differently in the future? Is the traditional role of the DG – as creative leader, editorial boss and executive manager – still best carried out by a single individual? What of the role of selection committee? How are its members selected? What are the potential alternatives to a centralised model?
Programming too is determined by these debates, and the question of what we mean by ‘public interest’ regarding the BBC’s content is one that needs closer scrutiny than ever. The received image of Radio 4 as ‘an old boys club’ is pertinent to many, while the specialist broadcasting that has long been lauded as the institution’s great strength frequently fails to employ, engage and appeal to its diverse audience.
As the UK’s media is increasingly transformed by blogs and citizen journalism, ourBeeb asks how the BBC can respond in turn, as a means of innovating, engaging and establishing democratic credibility.
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Conference coverage from 50.50
Articles exploring the themes of the fourth international Nobel Women's Initiative conference May 28-31. Jennifer Allsopp and Heather McRobie will be reporting for 5050
Articles exploring the themes of the fourth international Nobel Women's Initiative conference May 28-31. Jennifer Allsopp and Heather McRobie will be reporting for 5050
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Lis Howell On broadcasting
Dan Hancox Revel, Riot and Rebellion
Martin Rose Bliss Was It in that Dawn to Be Next Door
Vron Ware Up in Arms
Jim Gabour Sunday Comics
James Warner Standing Perpendicular, as books do
Markha Valenta Inter Alia: religion, politics, culture
Paul Rogers on Global security
Mary Kaldor on Human security
