Non-commercial Broadcasting

In this chapter, the special features of non-commercial broadcasting as the third pillar in the broadcasting landscape are elaborated. This independent media sector has been established in most countries in Europe since the mid-1980s, beginning with France (1981). It currently comprises more than 2500 radio and TV stations and is discussed internationally under the term community media. Institutions such as UNESCO, the Council of Europe, or the European Parliament regularly emphasize the importance of community media for a living democracy as well as for strengthening participation, media diversity, and intercultural dialogue. After an overview of the emergence of the sector, the chapter focuses primarily on the situation of non-commercial broadcasting in the DACH region. Despite the very different legal and economic frameworks, the sector has an important role to play in all places in providing media literacy, local journalism, and ensuring diversity. Finally, the challenges and opportunities that arise for the non-commercial sector as a result of media change are discussed.