‘Bad for the nation, good for the news’ is a cliché about journalism that isn’t particularly sympathetic but is undeniably true. It’s unsympathetic because no one – not even a journalist – wants the nation to be in a bad state. But it’s true because during difficult times, the demand for news and other journalistic content increases.
Take, for example, the Trump bump: a surge in website traffic for news outlets during Trump’s first term as president. Not only did more visitors flock to these sites, but many also subscribed to news platforms.
Covid-19 updates
We saw something similar at EM during the pandemic. Deprived of university-related news, the number of readers on our site grew significantly, as did our Instagram followers. EM met the overwhelming need for updates about the latest measures, particularly among international students and staff. After every press conference on Covid-19 regulations, we provided an English summary that same evening, complete with relevant tips.
This is why what’s bad for the nation is often good for the newspaper. Let me stress once again that this does not mean journalists hope for or enjoy others’ misfortune. But in times of crisis, the need for reliable information grows, allowing journalistic outlets to demonstrate their value.
Not without pain and sorrow
Higher education is facing difficult times if the government’s planned cuts go ahead. As we speak, protests are ongoing, but at the same time, deep budget cuts are already being made within the university. Since last summer, it has been clear that belts will need to be tightened, and uncertainty is mounting.
Budget cuts never come without pain and sorrow, as losses are inevitable. However, slashing budgets does not justify treating people poorly. According to the university’s website, Erasmus University aspires to be a good employer. That makes it even more disappointing when people feel they haven’t been treated fairly. Sometimes, they turn to the newsmakers to highlight their personal situation or the state of their workplace.
Last resort
Turning to a journalist is often a last resort for people who feel unheard. No one enjoys airing their dirty laundry in public or tarnishing their own organisation’s reputation. People approach journalists when something truly serious has happened or when they’ve been ignored for a long time. Journalism sits at the top of the escalation ladder – it’s where people turn to when talking, negotiating, or filing complaints has failed. That’s when things need to come out: decision-makers must be held accountable, and the issue must be exposed. Only then can change occur.
At EM, we are also noticing the early impacts of the looming budget cuts. These are cuts that the Executive Board clearly didn’t ask for, yet they are responsible for explaining them with sensitivity to both individuals and the organisation, and for making tough decisions. EM’s role is to report on this, provide context, and ensure that all sides are heard. And when mistakes are made, we will air the dirty laundry. Because what’s bad for the nation, belongs in the news.
