Journalism in Jeopardy: The Rise of Unqualified 'Journalists'

The proliferation of digital media has led to a surge in unprofessional journalism, with many individuals dubbing themselves "video journalists" without adhering to the fundamental principles of ethical journalism. Armed with Android phones and an insatiable appetite for virality, these self-proclaimed journalists disseminate information without regard for its accuracy or consequences. The resultant spread of misinformation can have far-reaching repercussions, influencing public opinion and shaping narratives without basis in fact.

The distinction between professional journalists and citizen journalists or YouTubers has become increasingly blurred. While the latter may capture events and share them with the world, they often lack the rigorous training and adherence to journalistic ethics that define the profession. Professional journalists undergo extensive education and training, earning degrees in journalism and honing their craft to provide accurate, unbiased, and responsible reporting. In contrast, many YouTubers and vloggers prioritise sensationalism and clicks over factuality and fairness.

The rise of unprofessional, uncertified, and unqualified journalists flooding the digital space as YouTubers and vloggers poses a significant threat to the integrity of journalism. The lack of accountability and regulation in the digital sphere has created a Wild West environment where anyone can claim to be a journalist without facing any consequences. This not only undermines the credibility of professional journalists but also puts the public at risk of receiving inaccurate and misleading information. Unprofessional coverage can mislead viewers, perpetuate misinformation, and even incite harm. The proliferation of unaccountable and uncredentialed "journalists" undermines the integrity of journalism as a profession, eroding trust in institutions and the media.

Certified journalist associations and unions must establish clear demarcations between professional and unprofessional journalists, ensuring that those who claim to report on official events do so with the requisite expertise and adherence to ethics. Journalistic integrity is crucial in maintaining a well-informed public. When YouTubers and vloggers cover official events without proper understanding or training, they risk distorting the subject matter and perpetuating misinformation. The dissemination of such content can have significant consequences, influencing public opinion and shaping narratives without basis in fact. Therefore, it is crucial to promote and uphold journalistic standards, ensuring that the public receives accurate and unbiased information.

The lack of regulation in the digital sphere has enabled unprofessional journalists to thrive. Regulatory bodies must take steps to ensure that online content creators adhere to basic journalistic standards. This includes verifying the credibility of sources, fact-checking information, and avoiding sensationalism. Certified journalist associations and unions have a critical role to play in promoting professional journalism. They must establish clear guidelines and standards for journalists and take steps to distinguish between professional and unprofessional journalists. This includes creating accreditation programmes, providing training and education, and promoting best practices in journalism.

Ultimately, the onus lies with certified journalist associations, regulatory bodies, and the public to promote a culture of responsible journalism, upholding the principles of accuracy, fairness, and accountability that define the profession. By doing so, we can ensure that the media serves its intended purpose – to inform, educate, and empower – rather than perpetuating misinformation and sensationalism. The public must demand high-quality journalism and support professional journalists who adhere to ethical standards. Only then can we restore trust in the media and ensure that journalism continues to play its vital role in democracy.

H Akato Sema