Issued by: GCIS for Film and Publication board
16 March 2000
The impact of the media -particularly the visual media such as film and television - is always a source of major debate. Whatever the reasons for such widespread concern, the presumed influence that visual images have on viewers has given rise to various forms of censorship and media control. lt is no secret that during the Apartheid era the press, television, cinema and even live theatre shows were subjected to interference by the government supposedly in the interests of "the public". Whereas, in the past, films and videos were frequently banned or cut in order to satisfy the interests of a minority, our new constitution effectively prevents this sort of intrusive censorship, except where it concerns child pornography.
Since June 1998 the body responsible for classifying films, video, DVDs, and even video games for public distribution has been the Film and Publication Board (FPB). Comprising members of the public representing a cross-section of South Africans, the 28 members of the Board were selected by an independent panel and appointed by the President. One of the chief functions of the FPB is to decide relevant age classifications for films and videos (not television material) that are made available to the South African public. These age classifications are imposed in order to protect children from material that might harm or disturb them
The work of the FPB is governed by diverse criteria, while the interests and concerns of a diverse population are taken into account. In this regard, the Board has recently produced a set of guidelines which outline how age restrictions are decided upon according to the depiction of young audiences.
The result of nearly two years of research, discussion, refining and redrafting, these guidelines have now been published in the Government Gazette and in the form of a booklet that is available for public scrutiny.
The FPB is determined to involve the public in the "media effects" debate and video viewers to evaluate these guidelines in terms of their own experience. It is hoped that the public will provide the Board with their opinions and ideas, thereby enabling the guidelines to be improved and refined according to the needs and concerns of all South Africans.
Anyone and everyone is invited to become involved in this process. Copies of the FPB guidelines are available from the Board (by writing to Private Bag X9069, Cape Town 8000; or calling 021 465 6518, or faxing 021 465 6511), and will soon be d!istributed at cinemas and video stores.
Now all South Africans have the opportunity to contribute to the media debate.
Contact: Jean at 021 465 6518