Finance

Pedro Duarte advocates public funding for journalism as a solution against disinformation

PSD Vice President Pedro Duarte suggests a funding model for journalism as a response to disinformation on social media.

28 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Pedro Duarte advocates public funding for journalism as a solution against disinformation — Archive photoPhoto: Foto: Renan Olaz/CMRJ · Wikimedia Commons · CC0

Pedro Duarte, Vice President of the PSD and President of the Porto City Council, participated in a discussion on the impacts of algorithms on democracy. During the debate titled 'Algorithms: Democracy Under Threat?', Duarte emphasized the risks associated with disinformation spread by social media.

In his remarks, Duarte acknowledged the need to explore a model of public funding for journalism. According to the politician, this approach could serve as an 'antidote' to the disinformation circulating on digital platforms.

The idea of public funding was presented as a means to restore trust and rigor in journalism, which, according to Duarte, could play a crucial role in safeguarding democracy.

The President of the Porto City Council considered that journalism, when adequately funded, could act as a 'lifeline' for democracy, challenging the misleading narratives that often emerge on social media.

Duarte made a call for reflection on current media funding practices and the need for innovative solutions to support independent journalism, especially in a climate where disinformation is prevalent.

In the context of the debate, various examples were discussed regarding how algorithms influence the distribution of information and the potential of rigorous journalism as a response to these challenges.

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