This dossier is intended to serve as the main preparatory briefing document for participants in the Public Broadcasters International (PBI) symposium, and to stimulate thought and discussion on all facets of public broadcasting. The first of four sections provides an overview of the current broadcasting environment, the challenges facing public broadcasters, global developments and trends in broadcasting, developments in programming specific to regional or geographic areas, and current financial information such as gross revenues, sources of revenue, expenditures, and deficits. The second section provides the mission statement for public broadcasting, the stated purpose and possibilities for a statement of shared mission, a synthesis of mission statements of public broadcasters worldwide, and a list of abbreviations or acronyms of public broadcasters and related organizations (23 references). Section three presents case studies of successful international co-ventures (Scienceview, TV5, Children's View) and co-productions (Our Beautiful Planet, Indelible Evidence, Mini Dragons, Ginger Tree, Paradise Garden) and proposes a set of criteria and guidelines for initiating and implementing international cooperative ventures and productions (11 references). The final section addresses opportunities for collaboration by public broadcasters, including a proposed international public network consisting of news, public television, and educational development agencies, as well as the development of an electronic database. (7 references) (DB)