Media Ownership Matters

The press is considered the fourth power in a democratic state. Mass media institutions directly influence society's perception of how things are going in a society. A press independent from politicians, political influences, and businessmen with hidden interests are the ingredients of a healthy democracy. That's why monitoring and ensuring ownership pluralism in mass media is the first step towards a free society.

How can people make free and fair choices if they don't know who provides their information? How can journalists do their job correctly if they don't know who controls the company they work for? How can media authorities who regulate the media market address excessive press concentration if they don't know who is behind it?

Ownership structure can also affect how the media industry manages its resources. It shapes the economic power and efficiency of the media sector, which is of particular interest to potential investors.

The Media Ownership Monitor Armenia study has documented systemic politicization of Armenia's media landscape.

Learn more about who controls the media by visiting the Media Ownership Monitor Armenia database.