THE IMPACT OF PAY WALLS ON NEWS ACCESSIBILITY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON DIGITAL JOURNALISM AND INFORMATION EQUITY

Abstract

In the digital age, traditional journalistic business models have been disrupted, prompting many news organizations to adopt paywalls as a solution to declining advertising revenues and print subscriptions. While paywalls offer a sustainable model for media companies, they also create barriers to information access, particularly for economically disadvantaged groups. This research aims to explore the impact of paywalls on news accessibility, with a focus on how various demographics perceive and engage with paywalled content. Using a qualitative methodology, the study combines semi-structured interviews with digital news consumers and media professionals along with content analysis of paywalled versus non-paywalled content. Thematic analysis reveals key patterns: while paywalls are often associated with higher content quality and trust, they contribute to information inequality and discourage younger, less affluent, and rural audiences from accessing credible journalism. Participants expressed frustration with limited access to public interest stories, turning instead to social media and aggregator platforms. The study concludes that paywalls, while effective for revenue generation, pose ethical and democratic challenges in a society where access to credible information is vital. Recent developments since 2020, including the post-pandemic subscription surge and emergence of AI- driven paywall models, have intensified these challenges while also creating new opportunities for hybrid approaches. Alternatives such as freemium models, public-funded journalism, and corporate- social partnerships are discussed as viable ways to balance sustainability with public good. The paper calls for a rethinking of digital journalism business models to prioritize inclusivity, accessibility, and media literacy.