A gesture that causes reactions
RTVE’s recent intervention before the Eurovision Song Contest has aroused intense debate on the role of the media in political issues. The message, which defended human rights with the phrase ‘Front to human rights, silence is not an option. Paz and Justice for Palestine ‘, has been interpreted as a clear and forceful statement, but also raised questions about the media’s information responsibility.
The responsibility of the media to the information
While each journalist has the freedom to have their own opinions, their professional function should remain apart from personal inclinations. In this context, the line between informing and positioning is diffused. The debate should not focus on individual ideologies, but on the responsibility of the means of providing equitable and contextual information.
The dilemma of neutrality
RTVE, receiving warnings from the European Broadcasting Union on possible political messages for political messages during the gala, has chosen to issue its positioning out of official transmission. This strategy, although apparently avoiding the conflict, generates a paradox: a message is to be communicated strongly, but with a certain caution that hides the true intention. Thus, public television is in a complicated situation where its neutrality is questioned.
The diversity of opinions and public service
Adopting a forceful message by a public corporation can give the impression that all its employees share this vision, which may invisible other internal perspectives and commit its public service mission. RTVE professionals can express their opinions as individuals, but they should not do so through an institutional platform that should remain impartial.
Impact on media credibility
In an increasingly polarized social context, the credibility of the media is constantly in place. The perception of the public is often based on ideological labeling more than on informative quality. When a medium decides to take sides, even in a subtle way, it can help increase distrust of the media system as a whole.
The line between journalism and activism
RTVE’s case illustrates how a message can alter the border between journalism and activism. It is essential to defend universal values such as veracity and plurality, but this must be performed with data and context, not with simplistic slogans. The media must operate as facilitators of the debate, not as actors who are directly involved in disputes.
A future for communication
As the media landscape evolves, it is crucial for the media to focus on its essential function: to provide accurate and balanced information. Neutrality is not a weakness, but a fundamental requirement to maintain the confidence of the public. Only in this way can they effectively contribute to society and public debate.