Maltese journalism : status function and perception

Abstract

Journalism in Malta has experienced a drastic overhaul. The introduction of pluralism in radio, nine years ago, and in television, six years ago, led to a revolution in broadcasting and the emergence of numerous radio and television stations. The past 10 years have also seen the emergence of five newspapers, two of which succumbed to the cutthroat competition and had to close down. The existing media has come a long way, changing image and content in an attempt to survive in the fast-changing world of digital media. This hive of activity has led to an important shift in the status, function and perception of journalism and journalists. This revolution in the media has enticed young people to enter the profession and many in the field believe their lack of necessary qualifications and experience could be undermining the credibility of the press. The debate for the introduction of a degree in communication studies and journalism goes back to the mid-1980s at a time when the fear of the poisoned cup of cultural imperialism had been spreading. The setting up of the Malta Press Club, 10 years ago, has also shaped the role of journalism in Malta through the introduction of a Code of Ethics, presently being amended to curtail abuse and to inject credibility into the profession. It has also been instrumental in setting up of the Press Ethics Commission over a year ago. Meanwhile, these past years have also seen the messenger being silenced from getting the message across to the public, echoing similar incidents from the past. Today, the debate is not whether to introduce these courses or not, but how many such courses should be taught at the university and what specific training should Maltese journalists have access to. Although press and broadcast journalism have improved in status, it is contended that much still needs to be done on several fronts to regain fuller credibility, and to better shore the democratic process.