The economic basis of journalism is eroding, journalistic structures are breaking away, and at the same time media are under increased social scrutiny: literally. In many places, journalistic offerings are achieving record coverage and audience figures. But they have long lost their role as (largely) unquestioned brokers of information and knowledge. While conspiracy theories are gaining ground among sections of the population even in times of pandemics, controversies over diversity in editorial and reporting are gaining momentum on both sides of the Atlantic.
Much remains to be done in terms of what socio-cultural and ethnic backgrounds, experiences, and views are expressed and represented in newsrooms. In both Europe and the United states controversies over opinion-pieces after the killing of George Floyd have sparked a debate about representation and responsiveness in journalism – often with an identity and generational dimension. At the same time, various initiatives both in the USA and in Europe demonstrate how diversity can strengthen journalism.
Speakers:
- Paulina Fröhlich, Head of Programme Future of Democracy, Das Progressive Zentrum
- Martina Guzmán, Damon J. Keith Race and Justice Journalism Fellow at the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights, Wayne State University Law School
- Nil Idil Cakmak, Neue Deutsche Medienmacher
- Aleksandra Tulej, Head of Service, biber Verlagsgesellschaft, Vienna
Moderated by Leonard Novy (ACG Multilateral Young Leader alumnus), Director of Institute for Media and Communications Policy