The media sector in Portugal faces a structural challenge: the crisis of traditional business models, accentuated by the digital transition, the loss of advertising revenue and the challenges of digital. In the midst of this turmoil, the issue of public financing of the generalist press emerges as a central theme.
I recently defended my thesis on the topic, which interviewed journalists, media managers, political parties and analyzed civil society, which reveals a fundamental conclusion: there is a widespread consensus on the need for state support for the sector.
However, the convergence of opinions ends where the debate should begin: in the form and models for implementing this support. The disagreements about as supporting the generalist press in Portugal are the main point of controversy and highlight the urgency of a public and structured debate.
The conclusion of the investigation is clear: from civil society to political parties, journalists and media directors/managers recognize that the press, as it is structured today, needs support to survive.
However, if everyone agrees on the what, the problem arises in the how. This is where the weaknesses of the current model and the lack of a single, integrated solution lie. While some unanimously defend indirect and technical support — such as tax exemptions, incentives for digitalization or support for media literacy — as they consider it to be the only way to safeguard editorial independence, others admit direct subsidies, but only under the condition that they are “well regulated”. This divergence arises from the persistent concern about transparency and, in particular, the risk of concentration of media ownership, which makes robust regulation imperative to ensure informative diversity.
The results of the investigation suggest that there is no lack of consensus on the need for public support, but rather an absence of effective and articulated debate on the support model. The journalism crisis, marked by deregulation, economic crisis and digital transition, requires an integrated approach that combines effective public policies with the adaptation of business models.
It is imperative to promote a common debate on public policies that guarantee the economic viability of journalism without jeopardizing its independence. The consensus exists; We now lack the political will and capacity for dialogue to find a solution that guarantees the sustainability of journalism as a fundamental pillar of our democracy.