In my early days as a rookie journalist at a now-defunct newspaper, I spent three months working without a formal contract or payment. It was during this time that I witnessed a senior editor advising a correspondent to receive wheat instead of monetary compensation from a local government official. This experience was at a newspaper led by S.M. Ali, a seasoned editor, and populated by experienced journalists from around the world, along with a group of talented young graduates, creating an atmosphere brimming with professional zeal. This environment exposed me to the distinction between two types of journalism rooted in personal versus public interests.
While honing my skills on manual typewriters, I absorbed important journalistic practices such as using terms like “reportedly” and “allegedly” for accuracy. I also learned the significance of presenting a balanced view by including both sides of a story and refraining from injecting personal opinions. In the 1990s, the journalistic principle of presenting both sides of an issue was highly valued. I entered the field following the downfall of an authoritarian regime, a time when the media assumed the role of the fourth estate with a renewed sense of urgency for investigation and information dissemination.
Today, the media landscape has undergone a significant transformation, shifting its focus from delivering news to emphasizing visibility and performance. Instead of objective reporting, we are inundated with subjective and digitized viewpoints. In the era of post-truth, a considerable portion of the media industry no longer prioritizes truth-telling to those in power. Many media outlets are in survival mode, resorting to tactics such as algorithm-driven content curation and punitive measures against dissenting voices. This evolution has led to a dilution of journalistic ethics, with the simplification and sensationalization of complex issues for the sake of engagement at the forefront.
The digital revolution in media, coupled with the rise of new media platforms, has further exacerbated this trend. The decline in print readership and the growing reliance on online engagement have prompted media organizations to prioritize click-driven content over maintaining public trust. The pursuit of online visibility has overshadowed the core journalistic value of presenting a comprehensive view of a story to readers.
Under the current political climate, where distrust prevails, mainstream media outlets often resort to aggressive public relations tactics to boost their online presence and attract advertisers. The editorial integrity and commitment to offering a balanced narrative have taken a backseat to strategies like search engine optimization and clickbait tactics. This shift has compromised the media’s role as a watchdog and diminished the quality of investigative journalism.
The ownership structure of media houses, coupled with the influence of tech-savvy reporters based in urban centers, has contributed to the marginalization of diverse voices and perspectives. However, amidst the decline of traditional media outlets, citizen journalism has emerged as a viable alternative, gaining traction among younger audiences.
Moving forward, it is imperative for media organizations to prioritize truth and editorial autonomy over sensationalism and political conformity. In an era plagued by misinformation and disinformation, safeguarding journalistic integrity and protecting journalists from threats, both physical and cyber, is crucial. Reforming the media landscape requires a collective effort to uphold journalistic standards and foster a culture of transparency and accountability.
As we navigate through this transformative period in media, it is essential to embrace change with courage and openness. The media must reclaim its role as the fourth estate of democracy by championing truth and accountability while safeguarding the rights and safety of journalists. The time for performative gestures has passed; now is the time for tangible reforms that uphold the principles of ethical journalism and serve the public interest.