Communication in depopulated areas: Systematic literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Previous studies on communication in depopulated areas attest to the complexity of the barriers and challenges that the population of difficult-to-access environments faces when exchanging information. The literature review provides abundant evidence of the fact that traditional theoretical approaches are insufficient to address the needs of these communities and therefore appear to require some preconception. Methodology: In terms of structure, this is a systematic review of the literature on communication in depopulated areas from 2018 to 2023. Objective: The general objective is to identify the lines of work most clearly defined by the literature in the field through the review of the theoretical postulates, the problems addressed, the conclusions and recommendations formulated in the studies found. The methodology is related to the PRISMA protocol because it requires a demanding process to select and evaluate sources and maintain the quality and validity of the selected sources. Conclusions: From the results, important gaps were identified in the theory of communication in depopulated areas and demand for more and more adequate policies to guarantee inclusion and efficiency. Regarding general recommendations, there is room to adapt communication strategies to the reality of depopulated areas and propose academic policies and research in the area.