In the message dated April 18, John Paul II writes that television
"frequently is the main point of reference for youth" and for this reason,
"it is necessary to create products that, while respecting pedagogical
dynamics and ethical values, take into account the sensitivity and the
educational requirements of young people."

"What are necessary," he continues, "are programs that promote the growth
of the person, a sense of well-being, and the capacity to correctly face
all the most difficult aspects of our existence, without trauma and
distortions. Above all, it is necessary to transmit through the media
values and models that cause the fundamental truths to emerge about human
beings and about the big questions they ask themselves. Among these, we
must point out in a special way the religious truths aimed at furnishing
appropriate answers to the deeper demands that accompany the growth and
development of the person."

The Holy Father highlights that "one of the principle paradigms of
civilization and progress is to pay attention to young people in the field
of the media of communication; it entails a passionate task to which all
must contribute according to their own role and their own strengths."

The Pope concludes by directing a call to leaders and institutions to
make it possible that "respect for the rights of minors may be considered
as a primary and essential criteria in the assessment of the media of
communication. I invite all parents to educate carefully at home as well as
a contributing member in society. To the agents of communication, in
particular to editors and producers, I urge you to invest in projects
appropriate for minors, keeping in mind young people's demands."
MESS/YOUTH:MEDIA COMMUNICATION/ROSSI VIS 20020422 (330)