Kalinga Plus Article The Role of Media in Social Security 

Ms. Geetika Bramhbhatt 

Assistant Professor 

Journalism and Mass Communication

 Kalinga University, 

geetika.bramhbhatt@kalingauniversity.ac.in 

Social security refers to the measures that are put in place to ensure that individuals in a society have access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, housing, and food. The media plays a critical role in promoting social security by informing the public about the various programs and policies that are available to them. In this article, we will explore the role of media in social security. 

Informing the Public 

The media has an important role to play in informing the public about the various social security programs that are available to them. Through newspapers, television, radio, and online platforms, the media can provide information about the different types of programs that exist, who is eligible for them, and how to apply.

 For instance, the media can provide information about government-funded programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, which provide healthcare services to low-income individuals. The media can also inform the public about the various housing programs that exist, such as Section 8, which provides rental assistance to eligible families. 

Advocating for Social Security

 The media can also play a critical role in advocating for social security programs and policies. By highlighting the importance of these programs and their impact on individuals and families, the media can help to build public support for them.

 For instance, the media can conduct interviews with individuals who have benefited from social security programs and share their stories with the public. This can help to illustrate the positive impact that these programs have on people’s lives and encourage others to support them.

 Holding Government Accountable

 The media can also hold the government accountable for ensuring that social security programs are adequately funded and that they are meeting the needs of the public. By conducting investigations and reporting on issues such as fraud, waste, and abuse within social security programs, the media can help to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used effectively. 

For instance, the media can investigate cases of fraud within programs such as Medicare and report on them to the public. This can help to raise awareness about the issue and put pressure on the government to take action to prevent future fraud. 

Conclusion

 In conclusion, the media plays a critical role in promoting social security by informing the public about the various programs and policies that are available to them, advocating for social security programs and policies, and holding the government accountable for ensuring that these programs are adequately funded and meeting the needs of the public. By working together with government agencies and non-profit organizations, the media can help to ensure that all individuals in society have access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, housing, and food.