There is a kind of epidemic creeping into the body of journalism, not only from the doors of power but also from within the media landscape itself. The path to chaos has become paved by impostors posing as journalists, along with armies of YouTubers and TikTok influencers, who have found in digital platforms a quick gateway to leverage influence unanchored in professionalism or ethical standards.
In this context, it is no longer a secret that most of the reckless behaviors tarnishing the image of journalism come from individuals with no genuine ties to the profession. They appear in offices, skipping lines, seeking free meals in hotels and restaurants, or attempting to impose their presence by threatening a “live” broadcast that could harm an institution or tarnish an employee’s reputation. What we witness today is not merely individual transgressions, but a phenomenon rooted in extortion and the clout of viewership, transforming the phone into a tool for pressure rather than a means to convey the truth.
It has become evident that authoritarianism is no longer confined to those wielding power. Instead, it has morphed into a popular behavior practiced by anyone who has garnered followers or “likes,” believing that this grants them the right to dominate others. These impostors and purveyors of rapid content harm the profession as much as they do society, opening the door to chaos and making everything permissible in the name of “freedom of expression.”
Consequently, the responsibility to counter this lawlessness has become imperative. It is not only about defending the reputation of journalism but also about safeguarding its core values from erosion. Journalism is a profession with standards, training, and ethics; it is not a gain to be seized by shouting in front of a camera or by amassing followers through scandals.
On the other hand, one cannot overlook the fact that amidst this noise stand honorable professional journalists and credible accredited correspondents who work with integrity and uphold what remains of the profession’s dignity. They represent the true face of journalism, proving day by day that true power lies not in the number of views, but in integrity, trust, and credibility.
Silence in the face of this deviation allows the disease to spread. A profession that tolerates chaos within its ranks loses its legitimacy to criticize authoritarianism outside its bounds. Journalism deserves defenders, not exploiters… and those who uplift it, not those who drag it into the depths of spectacle and extortion.
