Understanding of the role of advocacy in a polarised state: Revisiting the construction of news

Hillman, Adrian (2025) Understanding of the role of advocacy in a polarised state: Revisiting the construction of news. In: Ninth conference of the International Journal of Press/Politics (University of Edinburgh, 11-13 October 2023), 11-23 October 2023, University of Edinburgh. (Submitted)

Abstract

This work considers Malta, part of the understudied subject area of small states, and outlines a media system which is the product of a micro economy and unique societal culture. Taking a case-study approach, three news organisations are examined to understand the editorial routines, ownership and management structures, and social and cultural factors that affect the day-to-day business of creating news. To establish the fit between what is asserted by staff and what is actually taking place in the news-generation process, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders of each organisation are conducted alongside qualitative textual analysis of the content they publish. Contrary to previous research, advocacy continues to dominate Maltese journalism, indicating that the country has retained similarities to other media systems within its geographic region. However, this advocacy presents in different ways, influencing the nature of each organisation’s respective reporting and reflecting individual workplace cultures, routines and ownership structures, as well as constituting a response to the politically involved society in which they operate. This conflicts with the ideal typification advanced by Hallin and Mancini. The findings highlight the merits of the Maltese tradition – found wanting in the US objectivity canon. In this small state, journalistic advocacy extends media diversity and contributes to the high level of political engagement among its population.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item Edit Item