Blog entry by Katja Kolenc
Anyone in the world
Who owns the media matters. Ownership shapes priorities, influences editorial direction, and affects which stories are told—and which are left out entirely. In many countries, media outlets are concentrated in the hands of a few large corporations or politically connected individuals. This concentration can lead to subtle or overt pressure on newsrooms to align with owners’ interests.
For example, coverage of sensitive topics such as labor rights, environmental violations, or political scandals can be softened or avoided if they conflict with the owner’s business connections. Even when journalists strive for independence, structural pressures—advertising revenue, political influence, internal guidelines—shape what eventually reaches the public.
Understanding ownership is a crucial part of media literacy. Young journalists and audiences alike should reflect on how power dynamics influence the news they consume. Transparent reporting, independent public service media, and diverse ownership models play vital roles in safeguarding editorial freedom. Ultimately, media independence strengthens democracy by ensuring citizens have access to accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive information.