In a significant move for the South Asian media ecosystem, India has been elected Chairman of the Executive Board of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) during its 23rd General Conference held from 19–21 August 2025 in Phuket, Thailand. The country secured the highest number of votes, marking its return to this prestigious leadership role after nearly a decade. The last time India held this office was in 2016.
Dual Leadership Role: Strengthening India’s Influence
Currently, India is also serving as the President of the AIBD General Conference a position it holds until August 2025. The simultaneous holding of both prominent roles signifies a renewed global endorsement of India’s leadership capabilities in the realm of international media cooperation. According to Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati and President of the AIBD GC, “We deeply value the confidence placed in India’s leadership,” highlighting India’s five-decade-long partnership and collaboration within the AIBD framework.
What Is AIBD?
Founded in 1977 under the guidance of UNESCO, the AIBD is an inter-governmental organization fostering cooperation in broadcasting development across the Asia-Pacific region. The institute comprises 92 member organizations from 45 countries, including:
- 26 Government Members, represented by 48 national broadcasters
- 44 Affiliate Members from regions spanning Asia-Pacific, Europe, Africa, Arab States, and North America
India represented by Prasar Bharati, the country’s public service broadcaster under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is a founding member of AIBD.
Highlights of the 23rd AIBD General Conference
The conference, themed “Media for People, Peace & Prosperity,” drew together stakeholders from across the globe to engage in policy dialogue, resource sharing, and content collaboration. Sessions were anchored under the leadership of Shri Gaurav Dwivedi and focused on building a vibrant, cooperative media environment throughout the region.
Significance of India’s Election
- Reaffirmation of Commitment
India reclaiming the Executive Board chair after nine years reinforces its long-standing dedication to regional broadcasting development. - Strategic Governance Role
Leading the Executive Board places India in a pivotal position to steer strategic and operational decisions ranging from policy formulation to program development—in AIBD’s future planning. - Strengthened Regional Diplomacy
This dual leadership role enhances India’s diplomatic capital in multilateral media cooperation and positions it as a trusted voice in shaping the region’s broadcasting direction. - Platform for Future Collaboration
India’s leadership opens avenues for bilateral partnerships and hosting of future AIBD initiatives, exemplifying global confidence in India’s governance and broadcasting expertise.
India’s Vision: Media for People, Peace & Prosperity
The conference theme resonates deeply with India’s intentions promoting media as a force for societal good, peace-building, and collective prosperity. Under this banner, India-led initiatives are expected to bolster inclusive access to information, nurture media capacity building, and foster sustainable development across participating nations.
Broader Outlook: Why It Matters
This leadership transition comes at a time when the broadcasting industry globally is undergoing rapid transformation driven by digital technology, cross-border media consumption, and evolving regulatory paradigms. India’s renewed stewardship at AIBD allows it to:
- Influence regional standards in digital media adoption and regulations
- Advocate for capacity building and training in South and Southeast Asia
- Champion inclusive and resilient media frameworks in the digital age
Conclusion
India’s election as Chairman of the AIBD Executive Board, coupled with its concurrent presidency of the General Conference, signifies both renewal and rising confidence in its role in international broadcasting governance. This milestone reaffirms India’s commitment to fostering robust, collaborative media networks across the Asia-Pacific region guided by principles of service, peace, and prosperity.
Sources:
- https://www.thestatesman.com/india/india-returns-to-leadership-role-in-aibd-secures-chairmanship-with-highest-votes-1503475467.html?utm_
- https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2159841&utm_
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