Media blackout

A media blackout refers to the deliberate withholding or restriction of information by the media, often due to censorship, political pressure, or other external influences. This can occur during times of crisis, war, or significant political events when authorities or other powerful entities aim to control the narrative or suppress dissent. The term can also refer to instances where media outlets collectively decide not to cover a particular story or topic, often as a form of protest or to avoid sensationalism. In Hebrew, this concept is known as חסימה מדיה (Khesima Media). In Spanish, it is referred to as apagón informativo, and in French, it is called black-out médiatique. Media blackouts can have significant implications for public awareness and the democratic process, as they can limit the flow of information and hinder the public's ability to make informed decisions. Historical examples include the media blackout during the 1973 Yom Kippur War in Israel and the coverage restrictions imposed during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in various countries.