The French regulatory authority for audiovisual and digital communication (Arcom) held another annual expert conference, Assises de la radio 2026, at its Paris headquarters at the beginning of June. The main theme of this year's meeting, subtitled "Radio and Digital Audio: Time for Decision?", was to define the future direction of the radio market in the era of digitalization and changing listening habits.
The conference focused primarily on ensuring universal and sovereign access to radio broadcasting and the effective development of technologies such as DAB+. Martin Ajdari, Chairman of the Arcom Board, in his opening remarks emphasized radio's role as a stable medium in a dynamic digital age. The discussion involved many key players, including representatives of public radio Radio France, European legislators, and representatives of private media groups such as Bauer Media Audio and Lagardère News.
The program included a presentation of an extensive Arcom study focused on the relationship of French people to radio. The research confirmed that radio remains a highly trusted source for the population, especially in times of crisis. Up to 94% of respondents show active interest in news, and the same proportion of respondents follow current events daily. Despite the competition from digital platforms, television and radio maintain a dominant position as free and easily accessible sources of information.
In addition to linear broadcasting, attention was also focused on the boom in podcasts and digital audio. Arcom, in this context, highlighted the newly established Podcast Observatory, which it manages jointly with the Ministry of Culture. The aim of this body is to better monitor and analyze the rapidly developing market, map the ecosystem of creators, and study the economic models emerging in this segment.
“Radio and television remain, as free media, privileged channels for daily informing the public,” states the conclusions of the presented study.
The conference concluded with the Minister of Culture, Catherine Pégard, who emphasized the necessity of transforming the sector while preserving its specific values. Arcom also provided participants with an updated version of the White Paper on the Future of Radio, which summarizes strategic recommendations for media regulation and support in the coming years.