On a cold January morning in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia, 15 men and women boarded a plane to the US to embark upon a unique cultural and professional experience. Mongolian professionals working in the media industry gathered in Washington, DC for an executive learning and English language immersion program to explore the intersection of media and politics through the prism of the 2013 US Presidential Inauguration.
For four weeks, the cohort gained a new perspective on the role of media in the most recent US presidential election campaign, improved their professional English language skills, and increased their understanding of the three branches of US government.
During their time in the US, the cohort studied at the International Language Institute, where they worked with specialists to hone their English speaking and writing skills in an effort to improve their journalism when they return home. The group also participated in interactive discussions with experts from the Brookings Institution, Venn Strategies, US Congress, and with the US Department of State. These meetings provided insight into the workings of the US government, including divisions of power, checks and balances, and foreign policy challenges facing the second Obama administration.
In other meetings, including a visit to C-SPAN, NPR, the National Geographic Society, and The George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs, the cohort explored current trends shaping the journalism profession and strategized ways to innovate journalism in Mongolia.
Oolun Batbayar, of the Montsame news agency, said: "It was useful to learn about challenges that American journalists face in this dynamic digital age and the impact of technology on new trends in journalism and the rapid development of multimedia. Although in Mongolia technological progress has not yet affected the publishing industry, it is important to look ahead at future trends and be ready for upcoming challenges." Ms. Batbayer also indicated her intention to return home and to explore incorporating multimedia elements into her work at Montsame.
When asked what was one of the most useful pieces of information that he learned about the US political process, Erdenbayar Hasag, of Inet.mn said, "Lobbying is a new concept for me. It was really interesting to learn about this unique way of influencing decisions made by officials in the government." He previously viewed lobbying as a form of corruption, but his perception of lobbying changed after the group's visit to Venn Strategies. Now, he sees that lobbying can play a necessary role in a functioning democracy. He concluded by saying, "this is something we need to develop in Mongolia."
The cohort was also delighted to attend the 57th Annual Presidential Inauguration, a revered US tradition. Among the many attendants at the National Mall on January 21st, they witnessed the swearing-in ceremony of President Barack Obama.
To conclude their four-week program, the group attended a pre-departure debriefing and awards ceremony at American Councils' DC office. Each participant departed for Mongolia with an increased understanding of US media and politics, and an expanded network of international colleagues and friends.