Economist begins to roll out new online commentary feature

This article was migrated from an old version of our website in 2025. As a result, it might have some low-quality images or non-functioning links - if there's any issues you'd like to see fixed, get in touch with us at info@journalism.co.uk.

The Economist is to roll out new commentary 'By Invitation' features, the first of which involves 55 economists .

The publisher, which says its "primary mission" is to "spark and host intelligent debate", will feature commentary that answers questions set by the editors. Readers are encouraged to enter discussion in the comments.

'By Invitation' content stands outside the publication's pay wall but users must register to comment. The feature will be monetised through standard banner and 'roadblock' advertising.

"Our mission for The Economist online is to create the leading destination for intelligent conversation and debate," said Ron Diorio, VP for product and community development.

He said the new feature was a "natural extension" of existing content: the Democracy in America and Conversation Cloud feature , for example.

More topics are due to follow 'Economics by Invitation' later this year, the company said this week. In October 2009 the Economist launched an enhanced version of its pay wall that charged for access to articles over 90 days old.