In many parts of the world, community media are a rapidly growing phenomenon. Community media usually refer to, at minimum, the following characteristics:

1.    Community ownership and control

2.    Community service

3.    Community participation

4.    A non-profit business model[i]

Community media can be print or broadcast, as well as online and may publish in local languages. Community newspapers have a long history in some contexts, with small print runs and volunteer writers and editors allowing for affordable publication. Community radio stations now proliferate as a model for promoting local-level development and civic education, spurred by liberalizing of licensing regimes and the increasing affordability of technology. Community television stations are also increasing in number. In some countries, national public broadcasters will also play a community role, carrying material produced by (or aimed at) particular local communities, or communities of interest.

The definition of ‘community’ is often questioned when discussing community media. What exactly is a community? Traditionally it has been assumed to refer to a geographical community. But in South Africa, for example, with one of the widest networks of community radio in the world, the term is also used to refer to a community of interest, especially among disadvantaged sectors of society. Thus there might be a ‘women's community’, a ‘gay community’ or a ‘community of people with disabilities’. There may also be community media aimed at people of a certain religious faith.[ii] In the Solomon Islands, Vois Blong Mere (‘Women’s Voices’) is a non-profit community radio organisation broadcasting for the past ten years, focusing on women’s voices in all aspects of life. Virtual communities also challenge the definition of community. They are social media-based and transcend geographical boundaries, yet count as communities of sorts. Given that they often adhere to the four broad principles of community media mentioned above, some uses of social media usage can also be considered community media.

The significance of this for elections is immediately apparent. Community media, almost by definition, have a limited but loyal audience. For purposes of voter education, community media is very important, especially as they can reach sections of society that may be bypassed by more traditional media.

The terms of community broadcasting licences often prohibit explicit political campaigning. It is particularly important for a regulatory authority to monitor compliance with the terms of a licence during election periods.