International Journalism Week 2022, which takes place between 5 and 9 October 2022, kicked off its first day with a presentation of a nation-wide data survey on the loss of public trust in journalism and a follow-up discussion that highlighted the need for structural changes in the media landscape.
The first day of International Journalism Week 2022, organised by iMEdD (incubator for Media Education and Development), concluded with the participation of students, scientists and media professionals. The ‘Fourth Estate’ was placed under the microscope in a data-based discussion on its role as an independent monitor of power and on the loss of public trust in the media. Public and professional perceptions on the scope and practice of journalism were also explored, capturing the audience’s interest.
“The quality of journalism directly affects the quality of the democracy that we enjoy. In today’s age of polarisation, demagoguery and fake news, the need to regain public trust is imperative. And this calls for an establishment of transparent processes that will ensure credibility and validity in journalism,” said iMEdD Founder, Managing Director and journalist Anna-Kynthia Bousdoukou, upon welcoming the audience and speakers to the panel entitled “Matter of Trust: The Audience’s Angle”.
Stratis Trilikis, iMEdD co-founder, Programmes Manager and journalist, stressed that “The world is experiencing a period marked by profound uncertainty, insecurity, and doubt. We are all witnessing this on a daily basis and we all share these feelings. Never before, in my opinion, has the need to acknowledge the importance of the institution of journalism been more urgent than it is today.“
During his opening remarks, Andreas Dracopoulos Co-president of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) welcomed the audience via online connection and chimed in: “Our values are being challenged on a daily basis by many, and for many different reasons, but we must remember that a robust and healthy media landscape is an essential part of a functioning democracy.“
Read more about the 1st day of the International Journalism Week here