Dilemmas of Democratisation: Media Regulation and Reform in Argentina

The relationship between the state and the media has become a key political battleground in a number of Latin American countries in recent years. Using controversial changes to broadcasting regulation in Argentina as a case study, this article examines regional trends in this field. This article argues that despite criticism of the political motivations that led to its implementation, the Audiovisual Communications Law (popularly known as the ley de medios) has the potential to rebalance Argentina's media landscape. Moreover, it should not be equated with developments in Venezuelan media regulation, which do raise concerns about freedom of expression.