In the Market Plurality area, the MPM assesses the risks to media pluralism linked to lack of transparency and concentration of media ownership, commercial and owner influence over editorial content, and the economic conditions in which the media operate (media viability).

Political Independence is assessed using indicators that evaluate the extent of the politicisation of the media system, media organizations, newsrooms, media reporting and the public service media.

The Social Inclusiveness area looks at access to media by various social and cultural groups, such as minorities, local/regional communities, people with disabilities and women. In addition, the Monitor considers media literacy as a precondition for using media effectively, and examines media literacy contexts, as well as the digital skills of the population.