KecsUP News started out in 2019 as an independent, free-spirited media outlet, and has since become Kecskemét's leading opinion-forming public news portal. In addition to writing articles, the small editorial team also produces podcasts and regularly organizes live events and public debates with renowned experts.
Áramlat Foundation is the publisher of KecsUP.hu, an independent rural media initiative based in Kecskemét. The organisation believes that reading the news is not enough—understanding its context is essential. Readers are therefore encouraged to ask questions, engage actively, and contribute their views.
It was established as a civic response to the growing state control over pluralistic media in a media desert region that lacked alternative free press, affecting a population of 500,000.
Áramlat is committed to providing platforms for free and democratic dialogue, engaging civic stakeholder groups, and is a key organiser of the Civilla Civic Hub in Kecskemét—a platform for civic NGOs representing marginalised social groups, including LGBTQ+ people, women, local farming communities, and stakeholders in regional and urban development.
The foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of public discourse and serving the public good, particularly by upholding freedom of information and promoting citizen participation in public affairs.
Áramlat does not accept funding from political parties and employs no staff affiliated with or elected to local or national parliamentary institutions.
Since its inception, KecsUP has highlighted both problems and proposals from grassroots groups on issues such as deteriorating public services, poor living conditions, the effects of climate change, and public fund monitoring. KecsUP also collaborates with other rural and national independent media outlets, including Magyar Hang and Radio Free Europe, and co-founded the Szabadhírek.hu collective site.
