Communication Lab

A major threat to Israeli democracy stems from the increasing risks faced by journalists and the erosion of the ability to maintain informed public discourse. Media independence is being eroded by a variety of factors, of which direct government restrictions are a small part. Commercial interests bias journalistic coverage. Journalists are attacked in a very aggressive, threatening, and sometimes violent manner when they present information that parts of the public do not want to be revealed, both by politicians and by elements in civil society. The government is looking for ways to make it difficult for free media outlets and, using public resources, promotes media outlets acting on its behalf, with the aim of polluting public discourse and diluting independent voices in it. The digital revolution has entrusted powerful tools to elements interested in distorting the picture of reality underlying political discourse, and they are making extensive and effective use of them.

The Media Lab works to gain a deeper understanding of the full range of threats to the press and the free flow of media information in Israel, and to develop research and practical tools to deal with them accordingly. The lab examines three central and complementary areas: first, mechanisms for regulating journalism that will ensure accountability and a high level of professionalism without compromising freedom of expression; second, the ways in which the state and society can support independent media; and third, strengthening the public's media literacy - that is, developing citizens' ability to consume media in a critical and informed manner. The lab operates with the recognition that in an era of information overload, social polarization, and increasing political pressures, strengthening free media is not just a professional-journalistic matter, but a necessary condition for saving the democratic space itself.
.