New DFID funds aim to promote coverage of the developing world. Last year’s survey of public attitudes to development identified TV news as the main source of information about international affairs for 86% of respondents. This year’s Sheffield Documentary Festival saw the launch of two new DFID funds – the DFID Research Fund and the DFID Travel Bursary – aiming to help British television producers and journalists contribute to improving the quality and quantity of TV output about the developing world.

These new initiatives offer a source of funding for development work on documentary projects made in and about developing countries, and aim to expand understanding of development issues and of developing countries through television. International Development Secretary Clare Short said: “Television plays a crucial part in helping people in the UK understand world affairs, and we hope these funds will enable documentary makers to convey a better understanding of developing countries.”

For more information about either of the funds, contact the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association on 020 7583 5550, email dfidfund@cba.org.uk or visit www.cba.org.uk