[2012] This report presents the main findings of three regional surveys on participation at local and community radio stations in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific. The studies examined the involvement of the radio stations’ communities in programming, management, ownership and funding. The results are not representative, but will provide a basis for further in-depth research and lead to a practice oriented publication.
Participation of the community is an important feature of almost all stations participating in the survey. In all regions, involvement in programming is strongest. Results show that “traditional” forms of listener involvement, such as participation in talk shows or call-in programmes − which can also be found at public or commercial radio stations – are most frequent in local/community radios. Participation in management, ownership and funding are less common.