Journalism in Macedonia
News and information innovations are something that is part of our daily lives. To provide direct and qualitative information, we need qualitative journalism. Journalism is an organized work that involves investigation, verification, and accurate interpretation of information to the public. The role of journalism in contemporary society is very important and versatile. Nowadays, journalism has become a platform, developing on social networks on a daily basis! Journalism gives a voice to those who need it, trying to bring out the truth and justice.
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Journalism as a field is very broad, so we have different forms of journalism, starting from interpretive news journalists, investigative journalism, multimedia and digital journalism, photojournalism, social media journalism, etc.
Journalists face various challenges and risks. Political and commercial pressures are a major influence in the world of journalism. Especially the risk that journalists face due to the content of their articles or information, journalists face risks and threats most of the time. Therefore, this profession is undoubtedly a difficult and important profession for the good of any society.
The influence of social networks has made a big difference in journalism. Social media is a main source of information, so one of the most negative effects is misinformation, turning this profession into a game of income, people manipulate under false headlines.
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As for journalism in the Republic of North Macedonia, it ranks 42nd in the world for media freedom, but it is still not a very satisfactory journalism system. Because it is affected by disinformation, political pressures, and some media outlets even by unprofessionalism. Television is the main source of information, but portals are on the rise, although most of them publish news that they copy from the largest media networks. Many media outlets are politically influenced, and are also affiliated with political parties, which affects their headlines. Freedom of expression and the safety of journalists are guaranteed by the constitution. Many journalists work for low salaries and this affects their continued professionalism.
Regarding journalism in our country, I have secured several interviews with journalists from our town to see their perspective!
Regarding the current state of professional informative journalism, especially various risks and influences towards journalism in North Macedonia, journalist Vjollca A. expressed:
“Poor working conditions, lack of access for citizens to independent information, intimidation and blackmail of journalists, and the instability of media companies are some of the phenomena that characterize the country’s journalism and that speak volumes about its condition. Although in recent years’ reports on media freedom, Macedonia has made slight progress in terms of media freedom, it still remains fragile and leaves much to be desired. Even in a new report by the US State Department, which talks about freedom and human rights, it is assessed that in the Western Balkan countries, media freedom and freedom of expression are limited, mentioning self-censorship, attacks due to anti-corruption investigations, and pressure from officials.”
She also talked about fake news and how the state faces them, she said:
“On the other hand, the influence of fake news on social networks is a phenomenon that is still completely uncontrolled in North Macedonia, as such a thing is not regulated by law. This gives many opportunities for disinformation and propaganda, which undermines the right information of citizens on certain issues and events.”
It is very difficult to be a decent and fair journalist. It takes dedication, work, it is a long process to create a relationship of trust with the public. Journalism is an important part of the future. And it remains to be seen the impact of AI on it. What will be the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism, what do you think?
