Assessing Independent Media Viability in Indonesia

- 23 February 2026

In designing the concept, framework, and measurement tools to assess media viability in Indonesia, taking lessons from countries with similar circumstances, the working group appointed by AJI Indonesia has studied various ideas and models of viability indices, as well as conducted literature reviews from relevant institutions such as Deutsche Welle Akademie, the Global Forum for Media Development, and BBC Media Action.

This report presents three main areas of discussion derived from the literature study. First, it outlines the normative and political-economic background behind the emergence of the media viability concept and the rationale for developing a media viability index in Indonesia. It also reviews definitions of media viability, compares formulas and indicators of media viability indices from various international organizations, and explains how measurement will be carried out with attention to Indonesia’s specific context. The second part discusses the empirical conditions of alternative news media businesses and journalists as pillars of press freedom in Indonesia. The third part explains the proposed measurement scenarios and selected dimensions of media viability for Indonesia, including key indicators, data sources, and methods.

Assessing Independent Media Viability in Indonesia

Authors:

Masduki

Febrina Galuh Permanasari

Heru Margianto

Luviana Ariyanti

Rini Yustiningsih

Tri Joko Her Riadi

Editor:

Masduki

Secretariat Team:

Aprida Minda Mora