The way we practise journalism has changed over time with technological advances. Today’s journalists are expected not only to handle a camera and microphone but also to be multimedia-savvy and to develop digital storytelling skills. However, not everyone with a camera and a mic practises journalism ethically. Some self-styled journalists film solely for views on social media such as Facebook and YouTube. In doing so, they trade journalism’s ethics, standards and accountability for performance. Social media has indeed opened ways for its users to quickly receive information and news that would have otherwise remained hidden, but removing the barrier to publishing information doesn’t eliminate the need for journalistic ethics.

Recently, a wave of self-styled journalists has gone so far as to enter government offices without permission, demand explanations from employees and question officials about their attendance, identity cards and dress codes, in the name of surprise inspections, underscoring once again the need for the media industry to set the standards that distinguish journalism from ‘stunt’. While it is the duty of journalists to question and investigate whether public servants are accountable to the people they serve, journalism must follow due process. Journalists are duty-bound to conduct basic research before reporting, prepare questions in advance and arrange an interview with the relevant person. They are also supposed to verify any content before publishing it and accept legitimate criticisms from the audience.

The consequences of actions by self-appointed inspectors carrying cameras are grave. When journalism is repeatedly associated with confrontational or sensational tactics, it can erode trust between public officials and the media, affecting even journalists following professional standards. Many government employees have increasingly complained of harassment despite performing their duties properly. This makes it difficult to gain essential information from officials.

These practices invite another danger that impacts the whole profession. Governments may find justification to regulate media more aggressively if sensationalisation of content blurs the line between journalism and intimidation. In the past, there have been repeated attempts to stifle press freedom. Authorities have misused Section 47 of the Electronic Transactions Act to detain journalists and silence critics. The Social Media Bill, 2025, introduced during the premiership of KP Oli, threatened press freedom. Every unethical act conducted in the name of journalism risks emboldening those who argue that stricter controls are necessary.

A balanced approach that addresses the issue without undermining press freedom is now necessary. The Press Council has already begun monitoring the activities and content of self-styled journalists, which is a much-needed step. Some have received warnings, while in serious cases of violations, disciplinary action has begun. The onus of reclaiming journalistic standards also lies with the media industry itself. Professional organisations should speak more clearly about ethical practices in journalism. Newsrooms should invest in training journalists in ethical reporting. Digital creators who disseminate vital information on social media platforms must also adhere to the dos and don’ts of journalism. The future of journalism will not be determined by who can publish fastest, but by who can report with a greater sense of responsibility.