Local news, social commitment and public usefulness: Case studies of digital native media in southern Europe

Abstract

Local journalism plays a crucial role in the social and political life of many territories. This does not prevent this specialisation from experiencing problems caused by the crisis in the business model, leading to the emergence of digital native media. The aim of this research is to analyse how digital native media in Southern Europe develop their information model and their relationship with their audience, in particular social commitment and public usefulness. Our study is based on five case studies of local outlets in France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal, selecting projects covering different areas within the same media system. The results show notable differences in terms of transparency and participation, involving an approach that prioritises proximity. Moreover, while some media focus on pluralistic sources and incorporate elements of constructive journalism, others maintain a more institutional profile.