The aim is to elucidate a framework for public service media in the Nordic region, showing how the concept of public service media is operationalized in terms of the growth of democracy, the public space, media pluralism, cultural diversity, gender and social tolerance. The vitality of any democracy depends on well-informed and knowledgeable citizens who take a critical approach. This is, thus, largely a matter of being a competent citizen. It is the users – the citizenry – that is in focus.