krant

Krant is the Dutch term for a newspaper. It denotes a periodical publication that reports on current events, offers analysis and opinion, and carries advertising. A krant is usually released on a regular schedule, most commonly daily or weekly, and can be distributed in print or online.

Typical contents include news articles, politics, economics, culture, sports, weather, and obituaries, along with editorials and opinion columns. Many kranten also publish classified ads and advertisements. Local, regional, and national kranten serve different audiences, and formats range from broadsheet to tabloid sizes.

Historically, the Netherlands has a long tradition of newspaper publishing dating to the early modern period. The krant emerged as a major medium for information exchange and public debate, contributing to the development of a literate, urban public sphere and to later processes of press freedom and accountability.

Today, many kranten maintain both print and digital editions. The print press has faced declines in circulation in many markets, while online versions, apps, and paywalls expand reach and revenue. Quality kranten emphasize accuracy, editorial independence, and transparent sourcing, while digital transformation raises challenges such as misinformation and media literacy.