Monitoring media reports on priority issues of public interest
The media is one of the most important social instigators that citizens use to inform themselves on matters of public interest. It is the responsibility of the media to enable citizens to obtain all of the information they need to take a stance on important issues of concern. Taking into consideration the media’s role in delivering relevant and objective information to citizens, the media is able to influence the general level of understanding of public policies, thus creating a space, among other social factors, for public debate regarding these policies. Moreover, its role is as a guardian of the public interest, and, by representing citizens, the media is able to incite debate on certain issues and exert pressure on public authorities and other centers of power responsible for these issues. In order to successfully fulfill its social role, the media needs an appropriate and favorable climate, including establishing and respecting certain ethical and professional standards, as well as establishing cooperation with other social actors that share a similar influence and represent similar interests.