Community Radio

The term “community radio” means different things in different contexts, but in general applies to small-scale terrestrial radio broadcasting featuring content created by and for distinct communities. Community radio is generally considered distinct from “commercial radio” and “public radio,” and its purpose is to provide a third tier of radio broadcasting that emphasizes public service programming and/or public access to radio airwaves. This entry further defines community radio and then discusses its origins and its manifestations throughout the world.

Community radio has existed in some form almost as long as radio itself, and the sector increased in scope and focus through much of the late 20th century. Since the turn of the 21st century, community radio has been enabled through widespread regulatory and licensing schemes, although ...