From threat to reality: Independent media endangered, security and democracy weakened, autocracy and disinformation thriving
International Fund for Public Interest Media (IFPIM) (2025), 18 pp.
"Rooted in research and consultation with independent media organisations in 30 middle- and low-income countries, this briefing argues that the weakening of democracy, security, and development is closely correlated with the near extinction of independent media. It demonstrates – with evidence – that financial support for independent media is one of the most cost-effective and impactful measures for shoring up democracy, increasing security and resilience to authoritarianism, and underpinning development." (Executive summary)
1 How AI, co-option and declining media markets are threatening media survival, 5
2 A rapid and steep decline of financial support to independent media, 9
3 Consequences – weakened security, strengthened autocracy, and a growing economic cost, 11
4 Points of Light – Effective responses are possible and comparatively low cost, 14
2 A rapid and steep decline of financial support to independent media, 9
3 Consequences – weakened security, strengthened autocracy, and a growing economic cost, 11
4 Points of Light – Effective responses are possible and comparatively low cost, 14
