Changing strategies, shifting responses: how movement parties and the traditional media interact

Movement parties have significantly disrupted conventional media dynamics through innovative communication strategies and the strategic exploitation of digital technologies. However, the existing literature has overlooked the interactions between these parties and traditional media outlets, despite the substantial political influence which the latter continue to wield. This chapter aims to fill this gap by examining the evolving relationship between movement parties and traditional media outlets across four European countries. Through qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with movement party representatives and journalists, the chapter reveals dynamic interactions shaped by the characteristic traits of movement parties. As these parties mature politically and become more institutionalised, their interactions with traditional media undergo significant transformations. Our analysis identifies two primary features shared by movement parties which contribute to similarities in their relations with the media: informal organisational structures and a reliance on digital media. Despite significant ideological variation among the parties analysed, the chapter highlights commonalities in their approaches and resulting media relations.