The Spread of News Deserts in Chile

The Case of the Aysén Region

Abstract

News deserts are areas where the local community lacks reliable media outlets such as newspapers in the context of a global crisis in the press that weakens local civil society through its effect on democracy, social cohesion, and identity. This study focuses on the remote Aysén region of Chile which despite being territorially the third largest region in the country has the smallest population (108,306). This research employs a triangular methodology, incorporating a quantitative dimension using public data with systematic searches, a régiónál news desert media map and a social network metrics analysis, alongside qualitative methods such as a case study on the territory with semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation conducted between January and February 2023. The findings indicate that 20% of Aysén is at significant risk of becoming a news desert while 40% is already classified as such. The limited availability of diverse sources of information, the lack of adequate digital infrastructure, and the economic challenges faced by small media outlets are among the key contributing factors. Furthermore, the study posits potential solutions, including the establishment of collaborative networks and the advancement of mobile journalism, with the aim of reinforcing local identity and public institution strategies. Although the insights presented are primarily focused on the Aysén region, they could be extended to other Latin American and global regions facing comparable media vulnerabilities.