The MacBride Round Table on Communication met in Harare, Zimbabwe, 27-29 October 1989, to assess the state of global communication ten years after the publication of the report of the International Commission for the study of Communication Problems, which was chaired by Sean MacBride. This calls for common action as well as pluralism and decentralization. In analyzing the role of mass media in national affairs and international relations, the Round Table took cognizance of the rapid changes in communication technologies and their impact on national sovereignty, economic growth, and cultural identity, as well as on the development of individuals and communities. The Round Table was particularly concerned with the emerging forces in the search for cultural emancipation.
Cultural ecology is now an indivisible and central part of the global communication debate.
Recognizing the diversity of cultures, social systems and communication traditions, the Round Table emphasized the challenges and opportunities which this poses to the mass media. It was noted that the mass media could play a more decisive role in furthering the democratic process, in the realization of people's rights to self-determination and in the quest for peace and international understanding. The Round Table was convinced that the operation of the mass media, both at the national and international levels, should be determined primarily by professional media personnel, committed to the public interest, without undue government or commercial influence. Professionalism in the media must be associated with the idea of a free and responsible press. This calls, increasingly, for professional autonomy of journalists as well as public accountability.