Broadcasting Policy

Abstract

The first set of case studies to be examined is in the area of broadcasting. Broadcasting is a particularly suitable candidate for study. As with any area dealing with fundamental public liberties, it is of considerable popular and political sensitivity. The problems surrounding the issues, options and governmental cleavages are, thus, accentuated. At the same time, throughout the course of the Fifth Republic, it has been an area in which the Prime Minister has been able to intervene directly, unlike other areas, such as foreign affairs, which have generally been controlled by the President. Moreover, the post-1981 period provided an excellent opportunity for comparative study as there were a number of important laws passed which fundamentally reorganised the broadcasting system.