Appeal for freedom of the press: Media variety as the basis of democracy!

Appeal for freedom of the press: Media variety as the basis of democracy!

Laimgrubengasse 10, 1060 Wien, Österreich - An alliance of independent media has directed an urgent appeal to the ÖVP to ensure essential guarantees for media diversity and freedom of the press in Austria. They warn of the growing influence of the FPÖ and their efforts to undermine democratic principles with their aggressive rhetoric. The representatives: inside of the alliance, which includes prominent magazines such as Südwind and women*solidarity, emphasize the need to actively defend press freedom, especially with regard to developments in countries such as Hungary, where drastic interventions can already be experienced in media freedom, such as Apa-OTS reported.

The demand for the alliance is clear: the promotion of independent media must be geared towards a democratic media policy that ensures transparency and equality in the support of media of all sizes. A fair advertisement policy, which also does not neglect smaller, critical media, is essential. These call for strengthening media that work for social inequalities and promote various reporting. Bernadette Schönangerer, editor-in-chief of women*solidarity, clearly spoke out against the intentions of the FPÖ to support online platforms in particular in the statement on media pluralism.

The influence of social media on democracy

The debate about media diversity is not only limited to traditional formats; Social media also play a crucial role in the political landscape. According to bpb.de , social networks have both the potential, political mobilization, as well as for fragmentation to contribute to the public. These platforms enable people to network and exchange information without central control, which carries both opportunities and risks.