Programme in Comparative Media Law and Policy

This research and policy programme brings together scholars, policymakers and practitioners to study contemporary issues in global media law and policy. The researchers have a particular interest in understanding media and governance in transitioning and fragile states. They strive to do this from different perspectives, emphasizing the importance of the culture and values of all the actors, both local and international. PCMLP explores the vast changes in media policy across the world from multiple disciplines—law, politics, international relations, economics and anthropology, among others.  It is our view that today’s substantial challenges in this field are best understood through solid empirical research that is grounded in historical context.   For full information on the activities of the programme please go to http://pcmlp.socleg.ox.ac.uk/.

Research Topics

Information Flows and Statebuilding in Somaliland (Dr Nicole Stremlau)

PCMLP is currently working on a major study on media and information flows in post-war Somaliland. Research has been carried out across several cities including Hargeysa, Burco, Erigavo and Boroma.

Media and Governance in Africa (Dr Nicole Stremlau)

PCMLP is currently engaged in a number of related research projects in this area, examining how the media affects the state and nationbuilding process in Africa. We recently cooperated in organizing a workshop and study on media and post-election violence in Eastern Africa. Case studies included Ethiopia, Kenya, Somaliland, Uganda and Sudan. In October 2009 we will start a research project on ‘Rethinking Media Development Indicators: how China is shaping media policy in Africa’.

Students working in this area

Daniel Bekele

Blessed Ngwenya

Nabiha Syed



© Centre for Socio-Legal Studies [and the Faculty of Law at the University of Oxford] :: Legal - including image credits & permissions

dedicated to the study of law in its social context

you are here: research » Media Law and Policy