The Programme in Comparative Media Law and Policy (PCMLP) at the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies is a research and policy programme that brings together scholars, policymakers and practitioners to study contemporary issues in global media law and policy. We have a particular interest in understanding media and governance in transitioning and fragile states. We strive to do this from different perspectives and we emphasize the importance of the culture and values of all the actors, both local and international.

The Programme was founded in 1996 at the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies in the Faculty of Law at the University of Oxford. Monroe E. Price and Stefaan Verhulst established PCMLP with a grant from the Markle Foundation and the cooperation of the Howard M. Squadron Program in Law, Media, and Society at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York. PCMLP works closely with Research Fellows in CSLS and across the University. Oxford provides a unique and interdisciplinary environment in which contemporary issues of media and technology can be seen in historical and geopolitical perspective.

PCMLP explores the vast changes in media policy across the world from multiple disciplines – law, politics, international relations, economics and anthropology, among others. It is our view that today’s substantial challenges in this field are best understood through solid empirical research that is grounded in historical context and emerges from a dialogue between all those involved and affected.

We achieve our objectives through three primary activities: conducting academic and policy relevant research; supporting and developing our network; and offering academic training and support. PCMLP hosts several annual events including the Oxford Media Policy Summer Institute.