The European Media in the Platform Era: Realities and Tendencies

This book examines the significant changes reshaping the European media landscape in the context of rapid technological advancements, political shifts, and economic pressures. It sheds light on the economic, political, and structural forces behind these transformations, focusing particularly on the impact of platformisation, media convergence, and the emergence of new players on media production, distribution, and consumption. At the same time, the book analyses how platform dominance is reshaping European media ownership by fostering mergers and collaborations, while also raising concerns about media concentration. Against this backdrop, it also considers the evolving role of public broadcasters, as governments and policymakers grapple with the challenge of regulating new media realities while maintaining diversity and pluralism. It also discusses the implications of the trends for European identity and the European public sphere, particularly the tension between a top-down, institutional, and regulatory approach to Europeanisation. Providing a detailed overview of the trends and shifts shaping the future of European media, the book offers key insights into the dynamics and challenges of the contemporary media environment. It will appeal to students, researchers, and media professionals interested in media studies, European studies, international communication, and public policy. Its insightful analysis and empirical grounding enable readers to gain a better understanding of the ongoing transformations in the European media sector and the future direction of the media in the digital platform era.