The latest study by Professor Agnes Gulyas on local and community media in Europe examines the types of subnational media, their social role, and analyses the challenges this sector faces across the EU member states and five candidate countries.

The report concludes by making seven recommendations that cover developing comprehensive data for solid evidence-based policymaking, designing better subsidy and support systems, implementing initiatives in the local landscape that safeguard editorial independence and pluralism, and establishing a legislative framework for community and non-profit local media. Other recommendations based on the analysis point to the creation of tailored programs that address the specific needs of local journalists, counteracting the phenomenon of news deserts, and the clarification of the role of local public media.