Global Media Policy Working Group - Head elections 2026

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The Global Media Policy (GMP) Working Group will be holding online elections for one Vice-chair position for the term 2026–2030.

The elections will be held online from 13 to 27 May using the SurveyMonkey platform.

Individual members and representatives of institutional members in good standing who are also registered members of the Global Media Policy (GMP) Working Group by 8 May are eligible to vote.

To verify if you are a member of the GMP Working Group, log in to your IAMCR account and select “My Sections and Working Groups” from the menu.

View the candidates and read their statements below.

More information and timeline are available at https://iamcr.org/s-wg/elections2026

Read more about the Global Media Policy Working Group

Candidates

Statements

John Ibanga

Augustine University, Nigeria

It is my pleasure to present my candidacy for Vice-Chair of the Global Media Policy Working Group of IAMCR because it is my intention to devote more time and effort to this, one of my favourite working groups of our global family, IAMCR. I am convinced that we must not relent in strengthening the global outlook of our working group by more actively embedding perspectives from regions that are often under-discussed in global media and communication policy discourse. Media and communication policy discussions are still largely dominated by Western frameworks, and there is a clear need to broaden these conversations to be more inclusive of media policy realities from the Global South.

My role in the working group will address this research agenda. If elected, I will gladly support the leading team in actualising this mandate by contributing to conference planning, abstract review processes, and helping facilitate the planning of thematically relevant panels. More than anything else, I will be devoted to encouraging mid-career and emerging scholars from non-Western regions by fostering inclusive networks and mentoring opportunities.

What I am offering is not only my research experience but also a strong record of academic service and coordination within university settings, which has equipped me with the requisite experiences and skills to function in my role as Vice-Chair of the Global Media Policy Working Group. I kindly solicit your support and your vote on this journey, as I believe we can collectively make a bigger difference in broadening the frontiers of knowledge in global media policy research. I am ready to contribute actively, responsibly, and consistently to the work of the Global Media Policy Working Group. I would value your support. Many thanks for your attention!

With kind regards,

John

Karlyga Myssayeva

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kazakhstan

Today, global media policy is facing profound changes driven by artificial intelligence, platformization, and shifting geopolitical realities. These are not simply technical changes – they shape how information is created, distributed, and understood in society. In this context, the GMP Working Group plays a vital role in bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering meaningful, forward-looking discussions.

I am pleased to apply for the position of Vice-Chair of the Global Media Policy Working Group (GMP) for the period 2026–2030. My academic and professional work focuses on media systems, digital transformation, and policy, particularly in a rapidly changing media environment.

My research and teaching focus on media systems in Central Asia and Eurasia – regions often overlooked in global debates yet undergoing significant transformations. I have studied topics such as media convergence, digital governance, and the role of journalism in building informed and responsible societies. This experience allows me to contribute by connecting global debates to local realities.

As Vice-Chair, I would focus on three main priorities.

First, I would strengthen cooperation across regions. Media policy challenges are global in nature and require dialogue between scholars and practitioners from different fields. I would support initiatives such as joint discussions, workshops, and collaborative publications to expand opportunities for sharing experiences.

Second, I am particularly interested in advancing the debate on artificial intelligence and media governance. As algorithms increasingly influence public communication, we need to better understand issues such as transparency, accountability, and the public interest. The working group can play an important role in connecting policy research and technological developments.

Third, I am deeply committed to supporting young researchers. Creating an inclusive and supportive academic environment is essential for the future of our field. I would work to expand mentoring opportunities, encourage participation from underrepresented regions, and help amplify new voices.

I also have experience in academic coordination and international collaboration, as well as strong organizational and communication skills. I am committed to working closely with the Chair and colleagues to ensure the Working Group is vibrant, inclusive, and well-organized.

For me, the role of Vice Chair is not only about leadership but also about networking, supporting others, and fostering community development. I look forward to contributing to the continued development and effectiveness of the Global Media Policy Working Group (GMP).

Thank you for your attention.

Tamilselvi Natarajan

Bayan College, Affiliated to Purdue University Northwest, USA

I am honoured to submit my candidature for the Vice Chair position of the Global Media Policy Working Group of the International Association for Media and Communication Research. My academic journey in media studies since 2004, combined with my present administrative role as Assistant Dean for Academics, Research and Innovation at Bayan College, positions me uniquely to contribute meaningfully to the vision, collaboration, and global outreach of this Working Group.

My research, teaching, and administrative experiences are deeply rooted in questions of media literacy, gender and media, digital cultures, and the social responsibilities of communication systems. Over the years, I have worked on projects addressing disinformation, media ethics and sustainable communication practices, including funded initiatives supported by international and national bodies. These engagements have strengthened my commitment to the idea that global media policy must be informed by diverse cultural, political, and regional contexts, especially those often underrepresented in dominant academic discourses.

I currently serve in a senior academic leadership role in Oman, bringing scholarly engagement and hands-on experience in policy implementation, curriculum design, research facilitation, and academic governance. Working within the higher education system in the Middle East has given me valuable insights into how media, policy, education, and society intersect in this region. I strongly believe that there is limited representation from the Middle East on global academic platforms, and this position can serve as a meaningful bridge for dialogue, participation, and collaboration between scholars from this region and the wider IAMCR community.

As an active member of IAMCR and a regular participant in its conferences, I have witnessed the strength of its global network and the importance of inclusive representation. My work with colleagues across continents through conferences, publications, and collaborative research has prepared me to take on a role that requires coordination, communication, and a commitment to collective growth. I see the Vice Chair role not merely as a position of responsibility, but also as an opportunity to facilitate networks, encourage participation by emerging scholars, and expand the Working Group's geographical diversity.

I am passionate about encouraging researchers from developing regions to engage with global media policy debates. Many scholars from Asia and the Middle East produce significant work but lack visibility and access to international platforms. Through this role, I would actively work to bring such voices into conversations, initiate collaborative panels, support cross-regional research exchanges, and promote inclusive academic engagement.

My background as a researcher, educator, administrator, and media practitioner allows me to understand both theoretical and practical dimensions of media policy. I am confident that my experience in leadership, my commitment to academic collaboration, and my regional positioning will help strengthen the Global Media Policy Working Group’s outreach, diversity, and impact.

I look forward to contributing with dedication, integrity, and enthusiasm to support the Working Group’s mission and to foster meaningful global partnerships within IAMCR. Warm regards,
Dr Tamilselvi Natarajan