Mediestøtte

Mediestøtte is a term used in several Nordic countries to refer to public funding or subsidies provided to media organizations. The primary goal of mediestøtte is to ensure the diversity and plurality of media content, particularly in areas where commercial viability might be challenging. This support can take various forms, including direct grants, tax relief, or the establishment of public service broadcasting corporations.

The underlying principle is that a well-functioning democracy requires access to a wide range of news and information sources. Mediestøtte aims to counteract the concentration of media ownership and to support local and specialized media outlets that might struggle to survive solely on advertising revenue or subscription fees. The specific criteria and mechanisms for distributing mediestøtte vary by country, often involving independent bodies that assess applications based on journalistic quality, societal relevance, and editorial independence.

While generally accepted as a tool for media diversity, mediestøtte can also be a subject of debate. Concerns sometimes arise regarding potential government influence over media content, the fairness of distribution to different types of media, and the overall economic efficiency of such funding models. Nevertheless, mediestøtte remains an important policy instrument in many countries committed to maintaining a robust and independent media landscape.