INTERACTION OF LOCAL TV CHANNELS WITH GOVERNMENT STRUCTURES AND THE COMMUNITY: MODELS AND RISKS

This article analyzes the interaction between local television channels and local government bodies, as well as with territorial communities within the framework of decentralization. The paper reveals the theoretical aspects of regional media work and defines the role of television channels at the local level. In addition, it proposes a classification of the main models of cooperation between television channels and government bodies and describes the pros and cons of media work. The article examines the interaction between the media and government structures as an important element of the functioning of the state. It considers the main models of interaction between the media and government bodies, in particular the partnership, conflict, and public models. The role of the media in shaping public policy, ensuring transparency of government activities, and implementing the principle of accountability is analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the risks of such interaction, including political pressure, censorship, self-censorship, dependence on financial and power resources, and the use of the media as a propaganda tool. The need to adhere to standards of journalistic ethics, develop independent media, and improve the legal regulation of the information sphere is emphasized. Factors that may influence the independence of the media on the part of government structures are also analyzed separately. The conclusion outlines ways to resolve issues that may arise between representatives of the media, authorities, and the community. The paper also outlines the current challenges facing the media environment in the context of digitalization, hybrid threats, and martial law, which significantly affect the nature of communication between the media and the authorities. It defines the importance of the public sphere as a space for public dialogue and competition of interpretations. It justifies the need to strengthen the institutional independence of the media in order to reduce the risks of information manipulation and increase public trust.