The hope and hyperbole of social media as a vehicle to promote inclusive journalism

Abstract

Abstract The influence of social media on promoting an inclusive journalism remains unclear but raises great interest and debate. A total of 22 interviews were run with Swiss media professionals to shed light on journalists and their perception of social media to promote inclusive journalism and, more broadly, an inclusive society during the pre and post Arab revolutions. As a result of these interviews, an analysis is done of how social media helps journalists extend beyond dominant sources and narratives when reporting conflicts and thus promote an inclusive journalism. Findings show that even though social media creates a space where diverse voices can have their say, social media remains an uncertain terrain for journalists to apply judgements whether they are extending on dominant sources and narratives. On social media, journalists must negotiate new professional methods, skills and practices for reporting war and conflict to disrupt effectively dominant voices and narratives.