Why Independent Journalism Matters in the Age of Misinformation

In the era of misinformation, independent journalism is crucial in preserving democracy, and the trust of the people. Independent journalists are another barrier to disinformation and propaganda because they provide fact-based reporting that is free of bias. In their absence, false information may go rampant without any objection, thus damaging the societies and compromising the discourse. Independent media is used to hold powerful actors to account through exposing corruption, human rights violation and power abuse creating transparency and informed citizenship. With the increase in authoritarianism and digital manipulation across the globe, safeguarding journalistic independence is a critical issue in preserving open societies. Economic and political pressures on press freedom are a threat to press freedom, but independent journalism will provide the correct information, pluralism of opinion, and democratic strength. Not only is it a right to free expression but also a pillar of social stability and security and thus its preservation is a priority on the global scale in the fight against the perils of misinformation in a more complex media landscape.