> 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/role/communications-teams/start-here-quick-checklist-for-communication-teams.md).

# Start here: Quick checklist for communication teams

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**How to use this checklist**\
This is a quick entry point. For detailed guidance and examples, see the principle-based checklists below.
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### Context & relevance

☐ Do you have a clear understanding of the local media and information ecosystem (actors, audiences, political context)?

☐ Have communication requirements been adapted to the local political and media context?

☐ Does your communication plan reflect locally relevant priorities, informed by partner input where possible?

☐ Does your communication approach reflect how people access and trust information locally?

### Do no harm

☐ Have you assessed whether visibility could expose journalists or partners to political, legal, digital, or reputational risks?

☐ Have visibility and attribution requirements been adapted to the context?

☐ Have you consulted partners on safe levels of visibility and public association?

☐ Are safeguards in place to prevent unintended harm through communication activities?

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**Quick test**\
If visibility requirements were removed, would the programme be *safer and more effective*?\
If yes, reconsider whether current communication expectations are appropriate.
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### Increase financial and other forms of support

☐ Does your communication plan clearly explain why media and information integrity matter (e.g. governance, stability, economic outcomes)?

☐ Is communication framed in a way that supports sustained political and financial commitment?

☐ Does messaging highlight both impact and the risks of underinvestment?

☐ Are success stories framed in a way that strengthens political buy-in without compromising editorial independence or credibility?

### Take a whole-of-system approach

☐ Does communication reflect the broader media and information ecosystem, rather than only individual projects or actors?

☐ Does messaging reflect the diversity of actors involved (media, content creators, infrastructure, enabling environment)?

☐ Is communication aligned across related sectors (e.g. governance, digital, security)?

☐ Does communication avoid reinforcing fragmented or isolated narratives?

### Strengthen local leadership and ownership

☐ Are local actors able to shape how their work and narratives are presented?

☐ Does communication prioritise local voices and perspectives?

☐ Are communication approaches co-developed with partners where appropriate?

☐ Does communication reinforce editorial independence and credibility?

### Improve coordination of support

☐ Is communication aligned across teams (programme, political, communications)?

☐ Is messaging consistent with other donor or partner activities?

☐ Are communication efforts coordinated to reduce duplication and partner burden?

☐ Are opportunities for joint communication or visibility explored where appropriate?

### Invest in knowledge, research, and learning

☐ Is your communication approach informed by audience insights, data, or contextual analysis?

☐ Do you understand how information is accessed and trusted in the local context?

☐ Are feedback loops in place to capture input from partners or audiences?

☐ Can communication approaches be adapted based on changing conditions or risks?

**Download and print the checklist from here:**

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