Radio’s Role as an Alternative Online Medium and Site of Activism during a Time of Crisis: The Case of Greece’s Radiobubble

Abstract

Abstract The economic crisis in Greece saw an increase in activist movements, with numerous alternative media and civil society initiatives arose. Many such efforts went online to bypass media gatekeepers. One example is Radiobubble, an online radio station which attained prominence for its alternative news programming and coverage of social movements. Radiobubble served as an incubator for new civil society initiatives, while its social media presence became a hub for activists. However, did Radiobubble’s alternative programming model demonstrate longevity? Based on interviews conducted with Radiobubble volunteers between 2012–2017, the difficulties Radiobubble encountered in maintaining its early momentum are highlighted.