Panel talk: The power of the (new) media on defining neutrality
Traditional media continues to project a facade of neutrality, often masking deep-seated double standards. We are witnessing a significant shift: the masks of the West are starting to crumble, revealing the contradictions within, while an extraordinary solidarity is emerging across the 'global south.'
New media creators have an increasing influence on public debate. The rise of platforms such as social media, independent news websites, and podcasts has not only changed the way information is disseminated but also how we think about journalistic standards like objectivity, neutrality, and the truth.
In this panel, we will address the question: how are perceptions of objectivity and independence shifting in a time when 'the truth' is frequently challenged? We will explore the challenges and opportunities that new and independent media creators face. What does it mean to be independent in a world where polarization and conflict serve as business models? How do journalists and media makers balance involvement with detachment, activism with reporting?
The panelists will reflect on their own experiences and the ethical dilemmas that arise from these shifts. They will discuss how they see their role in shaping public opinion, uncovering the truth, and maintaining their audience's trust. What does it mean to stay true to journalistic principles in this era, and is that even possible anymore?