In a year marked by global crises and climate instability, independent journalism faces challenges due to low trust, declining engagement, and an uncertain business environment. Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2023 provides insights into
- attitudes to algorithms and their impact on news
- news participation and online engagement over time
- sources and drivers of news media criticism
- the importance of public service media for individuals and for society
- news podcasts: who is listening and what formats are working
As far as Greece is concerned, according to Antonis Kalogeropoulos [Free University Brussels (VUB)]:
Trust in news in Greece has declined due to perceived political and business influence on journalism. The media market is fragmented, with high reliance on social media for news. Discussions on press freedom intensified after Greece ranked poorly in a press freedom index. The conviction of a former minister for illegal interference in a TV licensing auction worsened perceptions of influence in media. A major scandal revealed surveillance of prominent figures’ mobile phones further fueled concerns. Despite weaknesses in investigative reporting, small outlets played a key role in uncovering the scandal.
Read the full report for Greece here
More findings from 2023 research:
- The war in Ukraine and the pandemic accelerated shifts toward digital, mobile, and platform-dominated media environments, impacting journalism’s business models and formats.
- Only 22% prefer starting news journeys with websites or apps, down 10% since 2018. Younger groups prefer social media, search, or mobile aggregators for news access.
- Facebook’s influence on journalism is declining; YouTube and TikTok pose new challenges.
- Audiences pay more attention to celebrities and influencers on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
- Trust in news fell by 2% overall, with Finland having the highest trust and Greece the lowest.
- Consumption of traditional media declines; online news access and interest decrease.
- News avoidance is high at 36%, with reasons varying from periodic avoidance to selective restriction.
- Growth in online news payment may be leveling off; 17% paid for online news, with Norway having the highest proportion.
- Digital subscriptions are concentrated among a few upmarket national brands; some countries see subscribers taking multiple subscriptions.
- Text remains preferred, but video gains preference in some countries like the Philippines and Thailand.
- News podcasts resonate with educated and younger audiences, with deep dive and extended chat shows being widely consumed.
Read the full report here