Journalism remains essential to holding power accountable and repelling autocratic trends. At a time of global democratic erosion, journalism confronts multiple challenges – economic precarity, political pressures, lack of trust, precarious work conditions, and a dwindling ability to command public attention amid (dis)information abundance. But democracies do not have an alternative institution to do what journalism does on any given day, despite its shortcomings and limitations. The fact that autocrats fear and persecute journalism is a telling sign that journalism is still relevant to scrutinize power, bring public awareness to important matters, and spark actions by other democratic institutions. In this talk, Prof. Silvio R. Waisbord (School of Media and Public Affairs at George Washington University) will interrogate the global role of journalism as authoritarianism and populism gain ground and civil society faces escalating crises. This event is presented in partnership with the Iowa City Public Library and UI School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Registration is not required but will help us get a count for the food and refreshments. Open to the public
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