Critical and cultural theories have profoundly influenced the study of media within the framework of development communication, offering nuanced insights into power dynamics, ideology, and representation. Marxist theory, one of the foundational critical approaches, emphasizes the economic structures that underlie social relations and cultural production. According to Marxist perspectives, media do not exist in isolation but operate within capitalist systems that inherently privilege dominant classes. Media content, ownership, and control are often shaped by the interests of the bourgeoisie, resulting in the reinforcement of existing power hierarchies. In development communication, this approach allows researchers to examine how media serve as tools for maintaining structural inequalities, shaping public consciousness to align with capitalist ideologies, and marginalizing the voices of subaltern or economically disadvantaged communities. The Marxist lens also enables scholars to interrogate the commodification of information and culture, highlighting how media products are produced not merely for social engagement but as commodities that generate profit while subtly transmitting hegemonic values. Critical theory, originating from the Frankfurt School, builds on Marxist insights while incorporating broader dimensions of social critique. It emphasizes the role of culture and communication in sustaining societal power relations beyond purely economic terms. Critical theorists argue that media play a central role in the normalization of ideologies, often disguising domination through narratives that appear neutral or natural. In development communication, critical theory facilitates the understanding of how media influence public perception, policy acceptance, and social behavior by embedding ideologies within news, entertainment, and informational content. It foregrounds the ways in which media can both oppress and potentially emancipate audiences, depending on the structures of production, ownership, and access. By applying critical theory, researchers can interrogate issues such as media bias, censorship, and the subtle shaping of public opinion in ways that maintain hegemonic power while appearing participatory or democratic. Cultural studies further enrich the understanding of media by focusing on meaning-making processes, audience reception, and the role of culture in shaping communication practices. Unlike purely structural approaches, cultural studies emphasize the active negotiation between media producers and audiences. Stuart Hall and other cultural theorists highlight that media texts are sites of struggle, where multiple interpretations coexist, and dominant ideologies are both challenged and reinforced. In development communication research, cultural studies approaches help scholars analyze how local communities interpret media messages in relation to their cultural contexts, social