Between free market and public digital infrastructure: intersections of media viability and public interest journalism
Global Forum for Media Development
Session 277
Media and journalism have always navigated the tension between free market forces and the public interest. Over the past two decades, the WSIS and the Internet Governance Process have played a pivotal role in strengthening media and journalism as cornerstones of democracy and the information society. This multistakeholder and interactive conversation offers an opportunity to reflect on the key achievements of the WSIS in the context of media and information ecosystems, while recognising the critical need to design digital public infrastructure. Can the development of accessible, affordable, and equitable digital public infrastructure address the market forces threatening the media—such as surveillance capitalism, opaque algorithmic governance systems, declining advertising revenues, and ultimately, the erosion of trust in media? By exploring these intersections, this conversation aims to generate shared insights and trends that will further shape and inform the WSIS+20 Review Process.
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C3. Access to information and knowledge
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C4. Capacity building
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C8. Cultural diversity and identity, linguistic diversity and local content
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C9. Media
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C10. Ethical dimensions of the Information Society
This session addresses several key WSIS Action Lines by examining how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can enhance media systems and promote democratic access to information. In particular, it contributes to C3 (Access to Information) by supporting open, inclusive, and affordable access to trustworthy information through resilient digital channels. It also links to C4 (Capacity Building) by exploring how DPI can equip media actors and institutions with the tools and infrastructure needed to thrive in the digital environment. The session reinforces C9 (Media) by reaffirming the essential role of independent and pluralistic media as a cornerstone of the Information Society. Through its emphasis on culturally responsive and community-based infrastructure, the session also touches on C8 (Cultural and Linguistic Diversity). Finally, it speaks directly to C10 (Ethical Dimensions of the Information Society), highlighting the urgent need to address ethical risks related to surveillance, opaque AI systems, and algorithmic governance—challenges that DPI, if governed in the public interest, can help mitigate.
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Goal 16: Promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies
The session aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by positioning journalism as a public good and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a vehicle for inclusion, equity, and rights-based governance.
Through its focus on media freedom and information integrity, the session reinforces SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), emphasising the role of independent journalism in democratic governance. Lastly, by highlighting the importance of coordinated action among governments, civil society, and the private sector, the session advances SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), supporting multistakeholder collaboration to develop and govern open, human rights-respecting digital ecosystems.