In times of social upheaval and geopolitical tensions, free journalism faces new challenges and opportunities. The panel discussion ‘The European in the Local and the Local in Europe’ highlights the interactions between local and European journalism and discusses their significance for democratic opinion-forming.
In numerous resolutions, the various EU bodies have recognised the great importance of free radio stations and community media in communicating local issues and perspectives, while at the same time embedding European developments in their context. In doing so, they create an indispensable space for diversity of opinion and nuanced debate. It is particularly noteworthy that radio producers at independent radio stations usually do this work on a voluntary basis and of their own accord – a commitment that deserves the utmost respect and protection. This voluntary commitment contributes significantly to the diversity of the media landscape and, in many regions, ensures the only critical reporting outside of commercial interests.
But what impact does this journalism have in an increasingly polarised public sphere? And why is its social significance often underestimated?
The discussion will address the following questions:
• How do European issues influence local reporting and vice versa?
• Can the journalistic performance of independent radio stations and citizen media be measured?
• What strategies can help to better communicate the importance of independent radio stations and citizen media and strengthen their significance in society?
• Where are local issues also European issues? How do citizen media help to translate European issues into local contexts and at the same time make local concerns visible throughout Europe?
The following participants will take part in the panel discussion, followed by a question and answer session:
• Lale Rodgarkia-Dara, audio artist, board member of the Community Media Forum Europe (CMFE)
• Jochen Fasco, Director of the Thuringian State Media Authority and Chairman of the Working Group of State Media Authorities in the Federal Republic of Germany
• Heiko Hilker, MDR Broadcasting Council
• Stefan Schmidtke, Managing Director of European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025 gGmbH
• Jörg Braune, Radio Operations and Programming Coordinator, Radio T, Chemnitz, Member of the Federal Association of Independent Radio Stations
The event offers a space for discussion, exchange and inspiration – for everyone who is committed to and interested in independent journalism and its future.