At the core of the Centre for Freedom of the Media‘s (CFOM) thinking is the recognition that the factual media, as a key institution of civil society contribute to wider democratic and civil processes.

CFOM aims to develop research agendas of direct interest to policy constituencies on specific issues and to create an early demand for research findings amongst potential users in policy and practice.

CFOM is concerned with three overlapping but distinct research themes:

Each of these themes consider the vital role of free news media in promoting and contributing to the sustainability of just, peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels (SDG 16) and to ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements (SDG 16.10).