Journalism is a dream for many young people, but the days of the Tintin reporter are long gone. Today's journalist plays with data, uses A.I., broadcasts on networks and has become more circumspect.
The journalist who tackles a critical subject has always done so at his or her own risk, but radicalization, organized crime, authoritarian states and internationalization are making the business more delicate. Journalists have received threats simply for talking about abortion or building permits, so when they take an interest in corruption, the environment or economically sensitive subjects... accidents happen so quickly.
For those with things to hide, "journalist" is akin to "spy"; in a dictatorship it becomes synonymous. There's no substitute for the truth, but as the song says, "the first one to tell the truth...". Journalists who last take the time to watch their backs and choose their battles.
The misinformation disseminated on the networks often directly attacks media that defend journalistic ethics. The response to this phenomenon relies not only on media literacy (MLE), but also on individual ethics. Deceit is certainly a way of achieving one's goals, but not at all a good way of maintaining long-term relationships with one's community.
With the advent of technology, anyone can become a potential journalist, so many schools are now integrating the basic principles of journalism into their activities, giving many students the opportunity to understand how the media work and to qualify their judgments.
A good report can change things, reverse a decision, put an end to abuse. To achieve this, journalists must adhere to professional ethics and remain as independent as possible. Like the judiciary, they represent a positive social force as long as they remain committed to the principles of accuracy and impartiality, otherwise journalism becomes propaganda.
The journalist respected by his audience is respected not so much because of what he tells them, but because what he tells them is true and complete.
Denys Lamontagne - [email protected]
Illustration: A Tintin investigates a toxic spill - Dall-e
