I'll speak to US since I know that best.
The Zenger trail in 1734 was a landmark for freedom of the press. Zenger was accused of libel for criticizing allegedly corrupt Royal Governor Crosby. Zenger was defended by Hamilton and won a jury trial.
Pamphleteers and publishers such as Paul Revere and Thomas Payne were a key asset of the Revolution.
There was a strong swing toward increased speech and press freedom in 1960 starting with the Free Speech Movement. Cohen v California.
"Autonomy in Communication" seems to refer to giving autonomy to public relations folks in corporate communications(?)
@hhardy01 That's a use, yes, though not a notably prevalent one IMO.
@hhardy01 Player's choice.
I may ask your basis or source(s).