The Middle Ground

The Middle Ground was an independent online news and commentary platform in Singapore launched in June 2015 by veteran journalist Bertha Henson and communications specialist Daniel Yap that ceased operations on October 15, 2017, due to financial challenges.

The platform positioned itself as a centrist voice, aiming to bridge ideological divides and foster thoughtful discourse on national and regional issues. With a commitment to providing balanced perspectives,

The Middle Ground sought to fill a perceived gap in Singapore’s media landscape, which was often polarized between state-controlled outlets and overtly critical platforms.

Vision and Approach

The Middle Ground was founded with the goal of encouraging critical thinking and civil discourse. It described itself as a platform for “news, views, and brews,” blending serious journalism with lighter, community-focused content. The platform tackled a range of topics, from socio-political issues to lifestyle and culture, with an emphasis on presenting nuanced and well-researched stories.

Led by Bertha Henson, a former Associate Editor at The Straits Times, and supported by a small team of professional journalists and contributors, The Middle Ground gained recognition for its incisive articles and its ability to engage readers across political spectrums. By offering a centrist perspective, it aimed to foster understanding and dialogue among Singaporeans.

Regulatory Challenges

In July 2015, just a month after its launch, The Middle Ground was required by the Media Development Authority (MDA) to register under the Broadcasting (Class Licence) Notification.

This regulation mandated that locally-run websites discussing political issues provide an undertaking not to receive foreign funding, citing concerns about external influence on domestic politics.

The Middle Ground complied with these requirements to continue operations, marking its adherence to Singapore’s stringent media regulations.

The founders emphasized their commitment to maintaining editorial independence and transparency despite the regulatory oversight. However, the registration process highlighted the hurdles faced by independent media organizations operating within Singapore’s controlled media environment.

Financial Struggles and Closure

While The Middle Ground achieved editorial success and cultivated a loyal readership, it struggled to secure sustainable funding. The platform relied on advertising revenue and contributions from readers but faced challenges in maintaining a steady income stream. Its business model proved insufficient to cover operational costs, including paying its small team of journalists.

In October 2017, after two and a half years of operation, Bertha Henson announced that The Middle Ground would cease operations.

The platform officially shut down on 15 October 2017, citing financial difficulties as the primary reason for closure. Henson explained that the organization had exhausted its resources and could no longer sustain its mission without compromising its values.

Legacy and Impact

Despite its short lifespan, The Middle Ground left a significant mark on Singapore’s media landscape. Its centrist approach, professional journalism, and willingness to engage in nuanced discussions offered a refreshing alternative to the often polarized media narratives in the country. It became a trusted source for balanced reporting and thoughtful commentary, earning respect from readers and peers alike.

The Middle Ground’s closure underscored the challenges faced by independent media in Singapore, particularly the difficulty of achieving financial sustainability in a market dominated by state-backed outlets. It also highlighted the broader issues of regulatory compliance and limited funding avenues for media organizations that strive to maintain editorial independence.

External Links

• The Middle Ground on Facebook