The Influence of Dedicated Fact-Checking on Journalism Practice in South Africa

Abstract

ABSTRACT With the practice of dedicated fact-checking growing across Africa and worldwide, this research examines whether the work of fact-checkers is considered to have an influence on journalism practice in South Africa. In-depth interviews with editors across the South African media landscape cast light on how the media use information published by fact-checking organisations, what journalistic practices result from the activities of fact-checkers, and what the implications of dedicated fact-checking are for professional journalism. The results suggest that fact-checking currently has some influence on journalism practice, but it has the potential to have a much greater effect should fact-checking organisations manage to create more awareness around the work they do and improve their relationship with the media. The study contributes to the limited research in the field of fact-checking and its effect on journalism practice and professionalism, especially in South Africa.