Komunikaní

Komunikaní is a term used in some strands of contemporary communication studies to describe a mode of information exchange that takes place within communities and emphasizes participatory, collaborative, and locally grounded making of knowledge. The concept centers on open dialogue, mutual learning, and shared authorship, with the aim of strengthening social ties and improving collective decision making.

Etymology and origins: The word is a neologism coined in the 2010s by researchers exploring participatory media and community governance. It evokes both "communications" and "community" and is intended to signal a practice rather than a fixed institution. Its usage remains diverse and somewhat regional, without a single canonical definition.

Characteristics: Komunikaní practices prioritise inclusive participation, multilingual accessibility, transparency about sources and methods, and reflexive evaluation of outcomes. Content is typically co-produced by community members, volunteers, and local organizations, with attention to power dynamics and consent.

Applications: It appears in local forums, community radio and journalism, neighborhood associations, and open-source or open-data projects that rely on participant contributions rather than top-down messaging.

Critique: Critics argue that the term is broad and can obscure tensions between inclusivity and efficiency, and that empirical support for its distinct benefits remains limited. Some warn that it can be co-opted by marketing or political actors if not grounded in accountable practices.

See also: Participatory communication; Community media; Deliberative democracy; Open governance.