Kathmandu: The USAID Civil Society and Media (CSM) Program on Wednesday launched the Vibrant Information Barometer (VIBE) study report, which rates Nepal’s information ecosystem as somewhat vibrant.
Nepal scored 23 out of 40, which is an average from the score it received under four principles: information quality, channels, consumption and engagement, and transformative action.
According to the report, Lumbini Province scored 24, indicating a slightly more dynamic information landscapethan the national average, while Madhesh Province obtained 22, showing a moderately vibrant information environment.
The report was jointly unveiled by Mahendra Man Gurung, Chief Commissioner of National Information Commission (NIC) and Meghan Nalbo, Country Representative of The Asia Foundation, Nepal.
The diverse and inclusive expert panel evaluated the vibrancy of Nepal’s media ecosystem based on 20 indicators with 167 sub-indicators.
The study engaged over 30 expert panelists from the national level and two provinces, encompassing editors, media managers, civil society members, reporters, educators, and activists.
The panelists were asked to assign scores to specific indicators within designated ranges: zero to 10 for indicators categorized as ‘Non-Vibrant’, 11 to 20 for ‘Slightly Vibrant’, 21 to 30 for ‘Somewhat Vibrant’, and 31 to 40 for ‘Highly Vibrant.
The VIBE study was conducted by IREX as a part of USAID CSM Program implemented by The Asia Foundation in Nepal in partnership with Pact.
Addressing the event, Chief Commissioner of NIC Mahendra Man Gurung said that NIC would draw on the findings and recommendations of the VIBE study report to prepareplans and plans relevant to the effective implementation of Right to Information (RTI).
The report identifies strengths and challenges and provides recommendations for enhancing Nepal’s information ecosystem.
The Asia Foundation Country Representative Meghan Nalbo said, “The Asia Foundation Nepal is committed to further enhancing Nepal’s information ecosystem. The VIBE report is an important, reliable evidence base on Nepal’s information ecosystem; it provides us the opportunity to reflect, listen to the accessed gaps for Nepal to meet its own resilient information needs, and work towards strengthening the information landscape, which I believe will help the media support the country’s vision for its own thriving development.”
The USAID Civil Society and Media program, funded by USAID/Nepal is implemented by The Asia Foundation to support independent civil society and media led by and for targeted women, youth, and marginalized communities to advance public interest, fundamental freedoms, and accountability.
Key insights from the report
• Urban vs. Rural Disparities: Urban content producers benefit from advanced resources like studios and AI technology, whereas rural operators face challenges such as limited access to printing presses.
• Media Coverage: While Nepal’s media extensively covers politics, critical issues like climate change, development, and marginalized communities often receive less attention, though investigative journalism plays a crucial role in holding officials accountable.
• Language and Diversity: Nepali language dominates media, limiting access for diverse communities. However, regional outlets in languages like Maithili and Bhojpuri aim to enhance inclusivity.
• Diversity in Leadership: Leadership in Nepal’s media primarily reflects Brahmin and Chhetri communities, with marginalized groups underrepresented. Non-professional content producers offer diverse perspectives.
• Financial Challenges: The media sector faces financial constraints, impacting print, radio, TV, and online outlets, leading to closures and job losses.
• Role of Online Platforms: Platforms like YouTube and Facebook complement traditional media, providing diverse voices despite challenges in content moderation and misinformation
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