Journalists add a layer of transparency to society by holding the world accountable for its ethical slights. Independent local news has a crucial role to play in that process. It nurtures a healthy democracy. This niche still has a real impact because:
Journalism Gives Communities a Voice
Local news has been declining all over the world. Research shows that this has made communities more polarised, less accountable, and less likely to vote. A journalism degree will prepare you for a dynamic career that makes a difference to society.
Local Journalism Acts as a Watchdog
Schools such as /schoolofjournalism.co.uk/ teach local journalists to hold governments accountable. Research has shown that when local journalism flails, political corruption grows.
Local Journalism Can Operate Independently
If corruption can’t be seen, it can’t be repaired. If you’re lucky enough to have the funding, you can participate in watchdog journalism as an independent operator. Non-profit journalists have a crucial role to play in increasing corruption-related prosecutions.
Local News Encourages Community Participation
Local journalists prepare communities for important votes and other forms of community participation. It played a key role in informing the public during the COVID pandemic, helping people to find treatment, access vaccination sites, and isolate safely. A 2021 study found that local media is also a critical resource for encouraging young voters to visit the polls.
When there is less local oversight, information deserts form, leaving communities at risk. While print subscriptions are declining, there remains plenty of room for new journalists, particularly in the independent news space.