Public Service Media Predictions 2026
12 January 2026 Leading public media workers, executives, and thinkers offer their insights into how they think 2026 will shape public service media (PSM).
Trust in public media: Jane Patterson RNZ Director:
When it comes to decreasing levels of trust, public media is not immune. Resentment towards democratic institutions, including the media, exploded into anger and mistrust through the pandemic and it’s never recovered. The challenges are numerous; press freedom is under attack while influencers and social media platforms provide alternative outlets to those seeking publicity outside of the traditional news setting.
It’s time to get back to basics. Strong writing, bold journalism, and keeping faith with the fundamentals of impartiality, accuracy, balance, and fairness. Public media journalism needs to keep a keen eye on what’s happening in local communities, to be a valued and visible part of positive change. Gearing up in times of crisis, providing vital information and comfort to those in distress. Now is our opportunity to learn from the mistakes of the past…
15 April 2026
