The 2025 update of the Market and Institutional Mapping of Independent Media in Jordan (MIIM) builds on the baseline study completed in November 2022. The purpose of this phase is to assess the changes that have taken place in the independent media sector in Jordan over the past three years, focusing on organizational development, funding models, market access, and the overall media environment.
The study combines desk research with structured interviews conducted with eleven independent media outlets representing different types of media organizations including news websites, podcast networks, and production companies. Two additional interviews were held informally with advertising agencies to validate findings related to the commercial advertising market.
In comparison with the 2022 study, the 2025 findings indicate both continuity and gradual progress. Several independent outlets have strengthened their internal structures, adopted written strategies, and improved their managerial and production capacities. Some have expanded their teams, introduced clearer job descriptions, and developed more organized business plans. Others have maintained their operations despite funding cuts and legal restrictions. The overall picture shows a sector that remains fragile but has become more structured and better equipped to manage projects and partnerships.
Funding continues to be the main challenge. Grants remain the dominant source of income for most independent outlets, although a small number have succeeded in diversifying their revenue streams through content production, training, or advertising services. Compared to 2022, there has been a limited but notable increase in attempts to generate income through digital monetization and subscription models. Nevertheless, financial sustainability remains uncertain and highly dependent on donor availability and project-based funding cycles.
The legal environment has become more restrictive since 2022. The implementation of the 2023 Cybercrime Law has added new layers of liability for journalists and online platforms. Many outlets reported investing in legal oversight and moderation systems to ensure compliance and avoid prosecution. This has increased operational costs and encouraged self-censorship, particularly in reporting on sensitive or political issues.
The advertising market has continued to shrink for traditional and independent outlets. According to Statista (2025), the total advertising expenditure in Jordan is projected to rise gradually but will remain concentrated in digital platforms such as global social media networks. Media agencies confirmed that most large brands prefer to advertise on these platforms or with major television networks, while independent outlets remain outside formal media plans. Advertising with independent media is still perceived as a reputational or political risk rather than a commercial opportunity.
Despite these constraints, several positive trends have emerged. Independent media outlets have become more professional in their operations and reporting practices. Many have invested in audience research and analytics, improved the quality of their content, and expanded their reach through podcasts and social media. The growing number of audio and video productions reflects a gradual adaptation to audience habits and the increasing demand for digital storytelling.
The 2025 update also confirms that collaboration among independent outlets remains limited but is improving. A few have begun to co-produce content, partner with private-sector clients, or engage with joint initiatives for advertising opportunities. These efforts are still at an early stage but represent a step toward shared commercial and institutional strategies.
The main challenges identified during this study remain consistent with those reported in 2022: restricted access to funding, limited advertising opportunities, legal and regulatory pressure, and the absence of reliable measurement systems that would make independent outlets more competitive in the market.
At the same time, the progress made in organizational development and content diversification demonstrates that independent media in Jordan continue to evolve despite difficult conditions. Their sustainability depends on continued institutional support, flexible donor funding, and the creation of a fairer media market that allows independent voices to operate on equal footing with commercial outlets.
