E-Archive

VOL. 26 January ISSUE YEAR 2025

From Editor's Desk

in Vol. 26 - January Issue - Year 2025
Journalism today faces numerous challenges that threaten its depth, independence, and credibility. Among these, the consolidation of media content, the reduction of investigative reporting budgets, and the competition from social media and AI stand out as critical issues.

A major hurdle is the widespread syndication of content. Many media outlets, constrained by limited resources, rely on articles purchased from large wire services like AP, Reuters, or AFP. While this can provide access to professional reporting, the diversity in narratives is reduced. The same stories are often repeated across platforms, leaving little room for original angles or localised perspectives. This approach diminishes the uniqueness of individual outlets and weakens their ability to stand out in a crowded media landscape.


Financial constraints have exacerbated this issue. As the cornerstone of the free press, investigative journalism is increasingly seen as a luxury. In-depth reporting requires time, money, and expertise, but the decrease in advertising revenue and the rise of free online content have cut the budgets. Many newsrooms now prioritise faster, cheaper content to meet the demands of the 24/7 news cycle. This shift often results in superficial and sensationalistic coverage, or reliance on pre-packaged press releases, which undermines journalism's role as a watchdog.


On top of these pressures, journalists are competing with the immediacy and reach of social media. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have become the primary sources of news for many people, often bypassing traditional outlets. While these platforms excel in speed and accessibility, they lack the accountability and rigor of professional journalism. Misinformation spreads rapidly, leaving journalists scrambling to verify or debunk stories long after they've gone viral.


Artificial intelligence brings opportunities as well as challenges. AI tools can automate tasks, such as transcription or data analysis, potentially freeing up time for more in-depth reporting. However, AI-generated content also competes with human journalism, often at a fraction of the cost. Algorithms tailored to audience preferences can further marginalise complex or less "clickable" stories, forcing media outlets to cater to trends rather than substance.

In this environment, the mission of journalism - to report the news, challenge authority, and call to account - is under threat. To thrive, this industry must find innovative ways to balance financial viability and editorial integrity, ensuring that quality journalism remains a cornerstone of democracy in the digital age.


Chief Editor of MFN, E-mail: andrzej@mfn.li