RNW Media is a Netherlands-based NGO specializing in creating online media content focused on youth.
Media assets
Online: RNW Media
State Media Matrix Typology: Independent Public (IP)
Ownership and governance
Between 1947 and 2012, RNW Media operated as an international public radio broadcaster named Radio Netherlands Worldwide (RNW).
In 2013, RNW became RNW Media, an NGO focused on promoting freedom of expression and operating in 13 countries across Africa, the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia.
The Supervisory Board of RNW Media is the outlet’s highest governing authority. It is responsible for appointing the organization’s CEO, among other things.
An independent consultancy specializing in human resources and recruitment selects the board members through an open application process.
In recruiting board members, the HR consultancy prioritizes young candidates from diverse and multiethnic communities, as advised by local experts and journalists.
Source of funding and budget
RNW Media receives funding through a state subsidy and grants, mainly from private foundations and donor organizations.
In 2020, RNW Media operated with a budget of €13.6m, with 58% coming from a subsidy awarded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to the organization’s annual report. The following year, the company had a budget of €6.4m, with state funding representing less than 40% of that. In 2022, RNW Media had a total budget of €9.3m, €6.2m of which came from a grant awarded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as stated in the company’s annual report.
In 2023, RNW Media had a budget of €8.3m, €3.9m of which came from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The remainder was contributed by donors such as UNESCO, U.S. Department of State, FPU, EU and the Dutch Postcode Lottery.
Editorial independence
There are no government-imposed provisions on the editorial policy of RNW Media. The editorial team makes all decisions collaboratively to maintain its editorial independence.
RNW Media has several internal mechanisms to ensure its editorial independence, adherence to ethical standards, and transparency. These include a code of conduct and a whistleblowing policy.
RNW Media is organized in a way that ensures an inclusive decision-making process, with governance decisions made by a Supervisory Board representing Dutch communities.
August 2024