Alerted but not panicked. The role of the media during the pandemic

Abstract

This paper analyzes the media coverage of the advance of the Covid-19 pandemic in Argentina and the measure of preventive and obligatory social isolation decreed by the national government. It highlights problematic trends and good practices according to a theoretical and normative approach, and links them to the historical characteristics of the media system in the country.  It uses a theoretical-methodological perspective that conceives communication as a fundamental human right, essential in a democratic society, and the mass media as a fundamental vehicle for its exercise, and is supported by the recommendations made by international agencies, civil society organizations and national institutions. The argument is that mass media in Argentina have the historical opportunity to show the relevance of their contribution not only to face this situation, but also to come out of it as a better and more just society.