Public Affairs Radio Programming

Public affairs programming in radio is information programming focused on politics and public policy, which works for the public good by meeting the needs and interests of communities. As well, public affairs programming can be understood as work that seeks to inform people and to act as the fourth estate, rather than journalism that is primarily concerned with entertainment. Radio public affairs programming includes radio news, current affairs programming, talkback, and even podcasting and is often well regulated by government.

While radio public affairs programming has traditionally been popular with older audiences, podcasting has increased its popularity among younger listeners. Although public affairs programming is a mainstay of public broadcasters, it is generally a requirement for commercial stations and community stations to also offer such work, ...