Ars boni - Corona als Katalysator der Medienkrise?
Apr 8, 2020
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Join media experts Andy Kaltenbrunner, a journalism scholar; Daniela Kraus, Secretary General of Presseclub Concordia; and Katharina Rabe-Stupnik, a media law specialist, as they discuss the profound impacts of COVID-19 on Austria's media landscape. They explore the decline of print media, the challenges of financial support distribution, and the growing importance of digital journalism. The trio also tackles media quality, government influence, and the unique dynamics of the Austrian market, shedding light on the pressing need for transparency and accountability in media.
The Austrian media landscape is undergoing a significant crisis, characterized by declining print readership and the disappearance of key publications amidst COVID-19 challenges.
Quality journalism is becoming increasingly crucial during crises, with a notable decline in journalism jobs highlighting the need for trained professionals to ensure informed public discourse.
Government funding mechanisms are debated for their effectiveness and fairness, particularly how they may favor larger outlets over independent media, raising concerns about equitable support for quality journalism.
Deep dives
Overview of the Austrian Media Landscape
The podcast dives into the current state of the Austrian media landscape, particularly in the context of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights significant issues such as declining readership in print media, exemplified by the disappearance of notable publications like the 'Wirtschaftsblatt'. Nearly 40% of the readership was lost among major titles within a decade, showcasing a troubling trend. The media crisis is underscored by existing economic pressures, leading to fewer publications and a significant shift towards digital formats.
Importance of Quality Journalism
The podcast articulates the critical role of quality journalism amidst economic turmoil, emphasizing the need for trained professionals in the field. It notes a stark decline in employment opportunities, with over 1,500 journalism jobs lost from 2006 to 2018, reflecting broader sectoral changes. Despite these challenges, the discussion stresses that high-quality journalism remains essential for informed public discourse, especially during crises like the pandemic. The participants explore whether current media funding mechanisms effectively support journalism quality, raising concerns about financial stability.
Impact of State Funding and Media Policy
A significant topic of discussion revolves around the implications of government funding within the media sector, particularly in light of COVID-19. The podcast examines changes in the media funding law, which has introduced temporary adaptive measures that some feel favor larger, established outlets over smaller, independent ones. It raises critical questions about why funding distinctions are made between paid and free newspapers and whether the funding criteria prioritize quality journalism. The participants debate the effectiveness and fairness of these policies in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
Shifts in Viewership During the Pandemic
Amidst the pandemic, the podcast notes how viewership patterns have shifted, with traditional television retaining significant market share in emergency reporting. Statistics reveal that over 81% of surveyed individuals relied on the ORF for COVID-related news, underscoring the importance of established media outlets during crises. The shift towards digital consumption is also addressed, with younger audiences increasingly accessing news online. Participants highlight this moment as a potential turning point for how news is consumed and the implications for future media strategies.
Challenges Facing Journalists
The podcast highlights various challenges faced by journalists, who struggle under increased economic pressure and dwindling resources. Many independent journalists find themselves in precarious positions, with innovative digital projects often overlooked in funding discussions. The difficulties in accessing information during the pandemic, such as limited attendance at press conferences, further complicate the reporting landscape. Discussions suggest that sustaining journalism requires not just financial solutions but a broader societal acknowledgment of its value.
The Future of Media and Journalism
Finally, the podcast looks towards the future of media and journalism in Austria, advocating for a more active discourse on media policies. Participants emphasize the need for collective action among industry stakeholders to push for a more equitable media landscape and better funding practices. They discuss the potential for legal challenges against perceived inequities within the new funding frameworks as a means of provoking necessary change. Overall, the conversation stresses that future media policies must adapt to contemporary realities, incorporating diverse perspectives to ensure a thriving journalism ecosystem.
Gegenstand unserer Episode 3 sind die Veränderungen in der österreichischen Medienlandschaft, Anlass ist die coronabedingt beschlossene Sonder-Vertriebsförderung.
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