Media Self-Regulation

Instruments of media self-regulation (such as press councils, ombudspersons, media journalism, etc.) are expected to ensure that professional media practitioners comply with established quality standards – while at the same time being able to act free from state interference. Especially in the digital age, however, the principle of self-regulation in the media sector is confronted with a variety of new challenges. The chapter outlines the functions and pitfalls of media self-regulation institutions in the German-speaking world and points out options for future development – also with a view to research in this subject area.