Yesterday I attended the Ofcom Workplan 2025 meeting in London, where I raised concerns about the control of social media platforms by unfriendly oligarchs, the weakening of the BBC, and the hollowing-out of the UK’s local media ecosystem. These issues demand urgent attention to protect our democracy and public interest.
The UK’s media landscape is facing a critical moment. Years of decline in local and independent media, compounded by the dominance of global tech platforms, have left significant gaps in how we access information, foster social cohesion, and safeguard democracy. This is not just a media issue; it is a societal issue that impacts how we live together, make decisions, and protect our shared values. The time has come for the UK Government and the communications regulator Ofcom to take decisive action to rebuild a robust and accountable media infrastructure that prioritises local communities, democratic integrity, and national security.
Local newspapers, community broadcasters, and other independent media outlets have been in decline for years. The rise of global platforms like Meta, Google, and TikTok has not only disrupted traditional media models but has also centralised the control of information and advertising revenue in ways that are profoundly challenging for smaller, local providers. This erosion of media diversity has left many communities without trusted sources of information and has diminished the ability of citizens to engage with issues that matter most in their local areas.
The reliance on global platforms for the dissemination of news and information has introduced additional risks. Algorithms, often optimised for engagement rather than accuracy or fairness, amplify polarising content and leave little room for nuanced, community-focused storytelling. The potential for foreign influence, misinformation, and disinformation further undermines public trust in the media and democratic institutions. These challenges are not theoretical; they have tangible impacts on elections, public health campaigns, and social cohesion, as seen recently across the UK and beyond.
Amidst these challenges, there is an essential role for community and civic media. These forms of media are inherently participatory, rooted in local accountability, and designed to serve the public interest. Community radio, in particular, exemplifies this model. As the most heavily regulated media sector in the UK, community radio stations have consistently demonstrated their commitment to providing a public service. They amplify local voices, create spaces for dialogue, and offer information that reflects the lived experiences of their audiences. Yet, despite their proven value, they remain underfunded and often overlooked in broader media policy discussions.
The decline of the UK’s media infrastructure has consequences that extend beyond media itself. The weakening of local and independent media undermines civic democracy, as citizens lose access to information that helps them make informed decisions. Social cohesion suffers when diverse voices are silenced or overshadowed by sensationalist content designed to drive clicks. National security is also at risk when foreign-owned platforms control vast amounts of data and have significant influence over public opinion. These interconnected challenges demand a coordinated response from the UK Government and Ofcom.
To address these issues, the government must develop a comprehensive strategy that prioritises investment in community and civic media. Increased funding and grants could enable these outlets to expand their reach and adopt new technologies. Ofcom, as the communications regulator, must also ensure that policies support the unique needs of smaller, decentralised media outlets without imposing disproportionate regulatory burdens. Recognising community media as a vital part of the public service media framework would further legitimise their role and provide access to essential resources.
The stakes for the UK are high. A strong, diverse, and accountable media ecosystem is essential for democratic engagement, ensuring that citizens have access to accurate and relevant information. Community and civic media are uniquely positioned to bridge societal divides, promote dialogue, and foster trust in a time of increasing polarisation. Moreover, investing in these forms of media strengthens the UK’s resilience against external threats, whether from misinformation campaigns or cybersecurity vulnerabilities linked to foreign-owned platforms.
A future where the UK’s media landscape is rebuilt around principles of accountability, inclusion, and localism is possible, but it requires action now. By supporting decentralised media and ensuring that policies reflect the needs of the public rather than the interests of global tech giants, the government and Ofcom can reassure citizens that their voices matter and their communities are valued. The challenge is significant, but the opportunity to create a resilient media ecosystem that serves as the backbone of a vibrant democracy is well within reach.
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