Media shaped by COVID-19: How is media changing?

Abstract

Over the past decade, the effects of digitization on Turkey's national and local press have significantly increased. In this study, the authors delve into the specific impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this ongoing digitization process. The research focuses on two prominent daily newspapers in Turkey: Hürriyet and Yeni Asir. To gain valuable insights, the authors conducted in-depth interviews with 14 media professionals. The study's findings revealed a noteworthy shift in public trust, with social media gaining greater confidence as a news source. Additionally, national and local press have radically transformed their reporting practices, influenced by the growing digital landscape. The study highlights the pandemic's differential impact on various media outlets, underlining the emergence of stale content in the industry. This research sheds light on the dynamic interplay between digitization, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Turkey's national and local press. It offers valuable insights into changing public perceptions, reporting practices, and the diverse effects of the pandemic on media content.