> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://oecd-media-support-principles.gfmd.info/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://oecd-media-support-principles.gfmd.info/toolkit/about/how-the-toolkit-was-made.md).

# How the toolkit was made

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This Toolkit is based on **consultations, interviews, and research** conducted with donors, practitioners, and media development organisations. It brings together operational insights from across the global media support community.
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### A consultation-driven process

Between May and July 2025, the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) conducted:

* **3 focus groups** with representatives from EU institutions, Member States, and partner organisations
* **15 structured interviews** with senior experts from public institutions, civil society, and academia

All discussions followed the **Chatham House Rule**, allowing participants to share candid perspectives, including on politically sensitive issues.

Insights, examples, and experiences from these consultations have been integrated throughout the Toolkit. All contributions are **anonymised** to protect participants and ensure that findings reflect shared challenges rather than individual positions.

### Grounded in sector evidence and practice

The Toolkit builds on **existing research, policy frameworks, and collective learning** from the media development field, including the OECD Development Co-operation Principles.

Consultations and research highlighted recurring challenges in donor support to media and the information environment, including:

* **Limited institutional understanding** of media development
* **Short-term and fragmented funding approaches**
* **Weak coordination** across donors and programmes
* **Barriers to local ownership and leadership**
* **Gaps in evidence, research, and learning**

These findings are consistent with broader sector analysis and reinforce the need for more coherent and sustained approaches to media support.

### From principles to practical guidance

While the OECD Principles provide a shared framework for donor engagement, consultations confirmed a gap between **high-level commitments and operational practice**.

This Toolkit addresses that gap by translating the Principles into **practical guidance tailored to different roles and institutional functions**.

### Alignment with ongoing processes

The Toolkit is aligned with ongoing efforts within the Team Europe Democracy (TED) Network and the wider international community, including:

* Work on strengthening coordination and funding approaches for media support
* Ongoing monitoring and implementation of the OECD Principles
* Collaboration with donor networks and multilateral initiatives

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### An evolving resource

The Toolkit is intended to remain **adaptive and responsive**.

It will be updated over time to reflect:

* User feedback
* Emerging evidence and research
* Changes in policy and operational contexts

Ongoing engagement with practitioners and institutions will help ensure that the Toolkit continues to support **effective, coordinated, and context-sensitive media support**.
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