Gatekeeping

Gatekeeping is the process by which access to information, resources, or communities is controlled by intermediaries who decide who may participate, receive services, or obtain opportunities. Gatekeepers include editors, moderators, administrators, professionals, and institutions. By filtering candidates, stories, or requests, gatekeeping shapes who can enter a field, gain attention, or access support.

In media and publishing, gatekeeping refers to decisions about what content is published or broadcast. In education, licensing, accreditation, and admissions act as gatekeeping mechanisms. In healthcare, triage and referral systems determine who receives limited services. In technology, platform policies and algorithmic ranking gate user access and visibility. In labor markets, credential requirements and referrals gate career opportunities.

Gatekeeping can preserve safety, standards, and quality, but it can also reproduce or reinforce social hierarchies and marginalize underrepresented groups. Critics argue that opaque criteria or subjective judgments undermine fairness, while supporters emphasize expertise and risk management.

Contemporary discussions emphasize transparency, accountability, and inclusive gatekeeping. Proposals include documenting criteria, providing appeals processes, diversifying gatekeepers, and creating pathways that preserve standards while expanding access.