Local journalism in the mirror: historical evolution and trends
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3145/infonomy.26.013Keywords:
Proximity journalism, Local media, Local news, Hyperlocal media, Historical evolution, Digital transition, News deserts, Public service, Civic engagement, EssayAbstract
Reporting on local issues is a principle attached to the origins of journalism. In fact, having access to this type of local news is essential for understanding the surrounding environment and for the functioning of democracy itself. However, the evolution of local news is not linear, but rather stems from several technical and social changes, compounded by differences between countries. This essay reviews the professional and academic trajectory of the sector, which is sometimes criticized despite its centrality to social life. Starting from the observation of the solid tradition of local and regional media in many territories, it traces their evolution, paying particular attention to the digital transition, where problems such as news deserts emerge. In a globalized context, there is also a renewed interest in local issues, giving rise to a whole new generation of digital-native local media. Furthermore, these news organizations are more likely to experiment, including with AI. All of this shapes local journalism as a vibrant field of study whose evolution depends not only on technology, but also on how a community understands itself.
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