Any media, including television, newspapers, and online publications, is independent media unaffected by governmental or corporate interests. There are numerous uses for the phrase. It is frequently used interchangeably with alternative media to describe media that expressly set themselves apart from the mainstream media in the United States and other developed nations.   The term "independent media" is used in international development to describe the creation of new media outlets, particularly in regions with little to no established media presence.  According to research, independent media is crucial for increasing governmental transparency and lowering corruption.