Despite the growing importance of the Internet and social media (see below), broadcasting and print media are still an important way for citizens to find out about elections and electoral choices. In most countries, television has remained the primary source of information. As a platform for the candidates to debate with one another and communicate their message to the electorate, thus, traditional mass media still plays an important role in the campaign period. The role is two-fold: Firstly, the media should grant candidates and parties direct access to the electorate by allowing political campaigning. Secondly, the media should inform the electorate by covering candidates, parties, and political issues relevant to elections in news, reports on campaigns and special information programmes.