The objective of this study was to investigate how economic and political power
relations between organisations involved in the digital migration influence the control
of the policy process. Therefore, the research investigated whether the policies of
digital migration are driven by profit motives or the need to accelerate universal
access for television. The research applied the theoretical approach of critical
political economy of the media, the Marxist ideology, global governance theories,
and policy network theories in order to generate critical and analytical judgement for
the research problem. In terms of methodology, the study applied qualitative
research methodology by using a combination of document analysis and participant
observation. In order to understand the political and economic context of digital
migration policies, an analysis of documents such as policies, policy submissions;
parliamentary briefings and press reports was conducted. The researcher also
conducted participant observation in various seminars and public hearings.
The findings reveals that digital migration in South Africa was pushed by
international forces which seek to benefit in terms of trading digital content and
electronic equipment. It is not surprising that digital migration policy making in South
African context is dominated by economic players with profit motives. Broadcasters,
manufacturers and other actors who have a significant interest on digital migration
are influencing policies which will benefit them financially thus ignoring universal
access goals. The relationship between government and other stakeholders is a
stable one as powerful economic players maintain a close relationship in order to
influence policies. It appears that it will be very difficult for government to attain
universal access of television while powerful economic players have major say
whenever new policies are made