The role of journalists in the UK is undergoing a significant transformation, with younger professionals increasingly embracing activism over traditional objectivity, according to a new nationwide study. As the media landscape evolves amid global crises and political uncertainty, the focus of UK journalists’ work is shifting.
A comprehensive survey conducted at the end of 2023 as part of the global Worlds of Journalism Study found that many UK journalists now believe their primary responsibility goes beyond simply reporting facts. Instead, they view their role as one that includes promoting social justice, advocating for the marginalised, and supporting democratic engagement.
Younger Journalists Embrace Activist Roles
The study, which surveyed 1,130 journalists across the UK, revealed a generational divide in journalistic values. Only 60% of journalists under 40 deemed the role of a “detached observer” as very or extremely important, compared to 74% of their older counterparts. In contrast, roles like “speaking for the marginalised” and “highlighting societal issues” were ranked significantly higher among younger journalists.
The findings also show increased importance placed on the watchdog role – monitoring and scrutinising those in power – which rose from 48% in 2015 to 65% in 2023. This signals a move towards more engaged journalism, especially in light of rising global authoritarianism and social injustice.
Decline in Objectivity, Rise in Public Education
The value of journalistic objectivity is gradually diminishing. In 2015, 77% of UK journalists valued being a detached observer. By 2023, that figure had dropped to 69%. Simultaneously, 88% now see “educating the public” as an important role – often associated with advocacy and promoting cultural values.
This educational focus is especially prominent among journalists working in podcasts and radio formats, and among those in local or regional outlets, who show stronger support for journalism’s role in aiding public political understanding.
National vs Local and Legacy vs Digital Media
The study also highlights key differences between various types of media. Journalists in local and regional outlets, as well as those in traditional legacy media such as print and broadcast, showed stronger support for roles that uphold democratic engagement. Meanwhile, those in digital-native media displayed less interest in these roles and increasingly rejected commercially driven content strategies aimed purely at attracting large audiences.
Journalism Responds to a Changing World
In the post-Brexit era, amid conflicts like the war in Ukraine and movements such as Black Lives Matter, UK journalists are reassessing their place in society. Many now question the long-held standard of neutrality in a world that demands moral clarity and action.
This generational and institutional shift points to a profession in flux. As objectivity fades, activism and democratic responsibility appear to be taking centre stage in the UK journalists’ changing role.
