Media Literacy: Swedish Experience and Ukrainian Realities
Date: 2023-12-17 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: WORLD
Contrasting Media Literacy: Ukraine vs. Sweden
In the year 2023, Ukraine slid to the 30th position out of 41 European countries in the media literacy index, marking a drop of one spot within a year. In stark contrast, Sweden climbed one spot and secured the fifth position. This disparity highlights the stark difference in approaches to media literacy between the two nations.
Swedish Approach: Strategic Media Literacy Building
Sweden stands out as one of the most media-literate nations in Europe, strategically approaching issues of information and media literacy. The country has spent years constructing an educational framework and enlightening its citizens. Media literacy in Sweden is an integral part of their democratic strategy and the country's digital transformation agenda. Swedes consider media literacy as a crucial component in shaping a democratic society.
Media Literacy in Sweden: Decentralized Authorities and Independence Assurance
A notable aspect of Sweden's approach to enhancing media literacy is the independence of its institutions from the government. Each participant in the process has the autonomy to chart their path towards achieving set goals. However, accountability to the Swedish Ministry of Culture, responsible for implementing state policies in this domain, remains essential. Annually, the ministry provides directives and tasks for each institution, allowing them freedom in their execution methods. By year-end, these entities must report their progress and propose improvements.
Key Institutions and Focus Areas
The primary body responsible for promoting media literacy in Sweden is the Swedish Media Council. Additionally, the Swedish press and broadcasting agency regulates the country's media landscape. Both these entities are slated to merge soon, aiming to centralize regulatory functions and bolster media literacy efforts, especially among children and teenagers. Moreover, Sweden houses an Agency for Psychological Defense under the Ministry of Defense, actively engaging in media literacy initiatives.
Targeting Vulnerable Audiences: Children and Adolescents
Children and teenagers stand as the primary focus of media literacy initiatives in Sweden. The Ministry of Culture in Sweden acknowledges them as one of the most vulnerable demographic groups concerning information influence. Educating them on consuming information judiciously and navigating media responsibly constitutes a core objective of the Swedish Media Council.
Lifelong Learning: The Essence of Media Literacy
The Swedish Media Council's central goal revolves around empowering children and adolescents to become conscientious media consumers. They envision media literacy as a continuous, lifelong learning process that accompanies individuals throughout their lives.
The contrast between Ukraine's media literacy rankings and Sweden's proactive strategies underscores the critical need to enhance media literacy efforts, particularly among the younger population, in navigating today's information-laden world.
