The Role of Journalism in the Digital Age
In today's complex and rapidly changing world, journalism faces unique challenges that threaten its role as a foundation for democracy and social accountability. Journalists worldwide face increasing political pressures, often leading to widespread self-censorship. This makes it even more difficult for journalists to stand up to powerful interests. At the same time, the rise of social media is replacing traditional media structures, creating an unequal relationship that puts pressure on ethical and professional standards.
In this context, World Press Freedom Day, celebrated annually on May 3, is a critical milestone that reminds us of the importance of protecting journalists' rights and ensuring access to independent, reliable information. It is a day to reflect on both the freedoms gained and the growing threats to a free press worldwide.
Looking ahead, it is clear that journalists must be better equipped to operate independently and ethically in a rapidly changing media environment. They must possess legal knowledge, business skills, and a deeper understanding of sustainability.
Prof. Dr. Jonathan Stubbs answered questions from the CIU News Agency on World Press Freedom Day. Speaking on the evolution of journalism and journalism education, Stubbs said, "Journalists need to have a stronger understanding of the importance of the law and how it impacts their work." Stubbs acknowledged the challenges of the relationship between journalists and social media platforms, saying, "Social media isn't going away; journalists need to figure out how to use it to their advantage."
1. Press freedom is critical to democracy and social accountability. However, in recent years, we have observed that press freedom is increasingly under threat worldwide. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing journalists today, and what steps should be taken at the local and global levels to protect press freedom?
Journalists in many countries face increasing political pressure, leading to widespread self-censorship. This, combined with economic challenges, makes it more difficult for journalists to resist political pressure because the news industry has become financially insecure.
2. What kind of education do you think journalists need to receive to maintain their independence?
Journalism education is becoming more widespread. Journalists need a better understanding of the law and its impact on them. True independence may require working outside traditional news organizations, so it would be beneficial for journalists to learn how to start their own businesses.
3. The rise of social media has significantly impacted traditional media. How is this transformation affecting the ethical and professional standards of journalism? How should young journalists approach this change?
Social media and journalism have never been a comfortable partnership—it's a very unequal relationship indeed. But social media isn't going away, and journalists need to figure out how to use it to their advantage—no easy task.
4. Journalism and sustainability are among the most important issues of our time. What role do you think the journalism sector should play in addressing environmental and social sustainability?
Furthermore, how do you think sustainability awareness can be integrated into journalism education?
The climate emergency is a major issue of our time, but the media often focuses on short-term news, and therefore the climate emergency isn't adequately addressed. I hope that as young people enter journalism, they understand this risk and find ways to communicate it to the public.
