I’m looking into the principles of Foundational Economics, and wondering how they can be applied to the media reform discussions we are engaged in?
What happens when media is no longer seen as an essential part of democratic life but as just another industry shaped by commercial imperatives? If the institutions that once provided space for local voices, independent journalism, and public debate continue to decline, who fills the gap? Do we rely on corporate media giants, whose priorities are dictated by profit and advertising models? Do we turn to digital platforms that thrive on engagement-driven algorithms rather than civic responsibility? Or is there still space for a different kind of media—one rooted in community, accountability, and public service?
If media were treated as a public good, how might it be different? Could we imagine a system where independent and community-led platforms were recognised as essential infrastructure, much like libraries, schools, or public transport? If media is the foundation of an informed and engaged society, why has it been left so vulnerable to market forces? Should access to quality journalism, diverse storytelling, and civic discourse be determined by profitability, or is there a broader social value that cannot be captured in financial terms alone?
When policy discussions about the future of media focus on the role of large broadcasters and global digital platforms, who is left out? Why is there so little space in these debates for civic society, public service organisations, and community-led initiatives? If the current review of UK media regulation does not consider the role of local and independent voices, is it truly addressing the needs of the public? What would it take for policymakers to recognise that a vibrant, diverse, and accountable media ecosystem cannot be built solely on commercial interests?
If we look at the decline of regional newspapers, the struggles of community radio, and the increasing concentration of media ownership, what does this tell us about the state of public discourse? If the spaces for local news, cultural expression, and civic engagement disappear, do we risk creating a society where people feel increasingly disconnected from the places they live? Can democracy thrive when citizens have fewer opportunities to participate in shaping the stories that define their communities?
If community media were given the same recognition as other essential services, what role could it play in rebuilding trust, strengthening local democracy, and ensuring more people have access to information that directly affects their lives? Could investment in alternative ownership models—cooperatives, trusts, and publicly funded local initiatives—help to shift the balance away from the dominance of commercial interests? Would a system that prioritises public need over shareholder value create a more sustainable, inclusive, and representative media landscape?
When media is treated as a foundational service rather than an industry, does it change how we think about its purpose? If it were supported as an essential part of a functioning society, would we see a shift away from clickbait and divisive content towards journalism that informs, connects, and empowers? Could a reimagined approach to media policy help rebuild spaces where communities can tell their own stories, rather than being passive consumers of narratives shaped by distant editorial boards and opaque algorithms?
If UK policymakers continue to overlook the importance of community-led media, are they missing a vital opportunity to strengthen social cohesion and civic participation? Should public investment be directed towards local media initiatives that provide spaces for dialogue, representation, and engagement? If we fail to act, will we look back and realise that the moment for intervention passed us by, leaving behind a media landscape that serves only those who can afford to control it?
If media reform is on the table, is it not the time to ask these questions and imagine what a different future could look like?