Why is trust in news declining globally, according to the report?

Question

Accepted Answer

Global Trust in News Declines Due to Shifting Consumption Habits and Broader Societal Anxieties

Global trust in news has reached its lowest point since 2015, with an overall decline to 37%. This decrease is attributed to a combination of factors, including a broader societal erosion of trust in institutions and leaders, direct attacks on journalism by public figures, and a significant shift in how people consume news. As audiences increasingly turn to social media, video platforms, and AI chatbots for information, often at the expense of traditional news sources, overall trust levels are naturally impacted.
Changing News Consumption Mix Leads to Lower Trust

The report highlights that a significant driver of declining news trust is the changing mix of news consumption. Social media and video networks have historically been trusted less than traditional news media. Consequently, as more individuals adopt these platforms, along with AI chatbots, as their primary news sources, the aggregate trust in news is prone to decrease. This trend is exemplified by the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which are rapidly growing in their influence on news consumption.
Broader Societal Anxieties Impact News Trust

Beyond the news industry itself, a wider decline in trust towards institutions and leaders is contributing to the fall in confidence in news reporting. This broader societal anxiety means that skepticism towards established sources of information, including news organisations, is becoming more prevalent. Journalism is also facing direct challenges from prominent politicians, further eroding public faith.
Increased Reliance on AI Chatbots and Video Platforms

The report identifies the growing use of AI chatbots and the continued rise of news video, particularly among younger demographics, as key developments in digital news consumption. While 10% of people now use AI chatbots for news, this usage is concentrated among those most interested in news and younger audiences. Similarly, social media platforms are increasingly serving as the primary gateway for news, with video-led networks driving much of this change.
Influence of Independent Content Creators

Alongside AI and video platforms, independent content creators and influencers are gaining traction by offering personality-led content. Audiences often perceive this content as more relatable and entertaining than institutional journalism, even if they consider creators less trustworthy and impartial. This shift further fragments the news landscape and challenges traditional media's ability to maintain audience engagement and trust.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why is trust in news declining globally, according to the report?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends