What is the impact?
News deserts are not only geographical. They also exist wherever people cannot access reliable information because it is written in language that is too complex for them. People with intellectual disabilities, limited literacy skills, learning difficulties or limited proficiency in German are often excluded from local journalism, even when local news is available.
vielleichter.it addresses this hidden form of news desert by making independent local journalism understandable and accessible. Rather than simplifying topics, the project removes linguistic barriers while maintaining professional journalistic standards. This enables more people to participate in democratic life and public debate.
The PM4D grant made it possible to transform this idea into reality. It enabled the creation of a functioning editorial model that can now serve as an example for other local media organisations seeking to improve accessibility.
Since its launch, vielleichter.it has attracted considerable interest from disability organisations, public authorities and civil society across South Tyrol. The project has demonstrated that accessible journalism is not a niche product but an important contribution to inclusion, equal access to information and democratic participation.
At the same time, the project has highlighted a major challenge: creating accessible journalism is resource-intensive. At present, much of the editorial work is carried out by a single BARFUSS journalist. To reach its full potential, the project needs additional editorial, technical and marketing capacity, as well as stronger partnerships with organisations that work directly with the target groups.
Over the past year, the BARFUSS team has met with virtually all relevant stakeholders, funding bodies, foundations and political decision-makers in South Tyrol. These conversations have generated strong interest and broad recognition of the project's social value. However, securing sustainable operational funding remains the project's biggest challenge.
The long-term vision is to develop vielleichter.it into a dynamic and inclusive newsroom. People who rely on Easy and Plain Language should not only be readers but also become active members of the editorial team, helping to shape stories from their own perspectives. At the same time, BARFUSS is working on a sustainable economic model that will allow the platform to cover its running costs, strengthen its partnerships and continue growing as a permanent public service for South Tyrol.
