The BBC represents a fundamental component of the UK and indeed the world’s information infrastructure. At the commencement of the BBC’s Charter Renewal process in 2026, this paper proposes routes to securing its survival, responsiveness and resilience in a highly volatile information environment. Our proposals aim to fortify the BBC’s institutional and operational independence and facilitate meaningful citizen participation in order to strengthen its democratic legitimacy.
This is the latest paper in the Epistemic Security programme that focuses on securing information supply chains within the UK and building resilience to adverse influence on our democratic processes. In the context of democratic backsliding and rising extreme populism, we are making the case this should be a central mission of this government.