Always faithful

Montserrat Domínguez, a veteran journalist based in Madrid, has emphasized the critical need for media integrity in the face of rising misinformation and disinformation. Speaking recently, she highlighted the importance of ensuring that spreading falsehoods becomes financially unviable, a challenge she described as central to defending democratic values. Her comments come amid growing concerns over the role of journalism in maintaining societal trust and transparency. Domínguez, who has worked extensively with major Spanish media outlets including Telecinco, Antena 3, and Cadena SER, underscored the responsibility of journalists to remain vigilant against the spread of false information. She noted that the current wave of anti-democratic and illiberal forces presents a call to action for all who believe in democracy and individual freedoms. This includes media organizations such as infoLibre, which she praised for its commitment to rigorous reporting and critical thinking. She argued that being well-informed is essential for active participation in society. Understanding the world around us, she said, allows citizens to engage meaningfully in discussions, make informed decisions, and contribute to shaping their communities. In her view, this process is akin to a mental exercise, one that strengthens both personal agency and collective identity. Domínguez expressed frustration over how important issues often get overshadowed by noise and trivial debates driven by partisan interests. She pointed out that while public discourse frequently focuses on immediate crises, such as wildfires, heatwaves, or energy prices, there is less attention given to long-term solutions, technological advancements, and civic responsibilities. This, she suggested, reflects a failure in modern journalism to provide depth and context beyond sensational headlines. The rise of digital platforms and social media has further complicated the landscape for journalists. Domínguez acknowledged that these technologies have disrupted traditional models of information dissemination, making it clear that media organizations can no longer assume a monopoly on shaping public opinion. Instead, she called for a renewed focus on core journalistic principles: exposing abuses of power, maintaining independence, and serving the public interest above commercial or political considerations. Her remarks align with broader critiques of contemporary media practices, particularly regarding the role of misinformation in political spheres. References were made to figures such as Lula da Silva, who has spoken about the ways in which falsehoods are used strategically to advance political agendas. Similarly, historical perspectives were invoked, recalling how certain media outlets have historically relied on fabricated narratives to sustain their influence. Critics argue that the normalization of falsehoods poses a serious threat to democratic institutions. While legal systems may offer limited recourse against deliberate deception, ethical and constitutional standards continue to emphasize truthfulness as a foundational principle. Religious teachings, such as the biblical commandment against bearing false witness, reinforce this notion, alongside national laws that mandate truthful reporting. In response to these challenges, Domínguez urged a return to journalistic integrity, emphasizing that the fight against misinformation must involve not just media professionals but also the general public. She warned that each citizen who disengages from reliable information contributes to an environment conducive to democratic fatigue, a phenomenon she described as a victory for those seeking to undermine public confidence in governance structures. The ongoing dialogue surrounding media ethics and accountability highlights the urgency of addressing systemic issues within journalism. As new technologies continue to reshape the information ecosystem, the need for responsible reporting has never been more pressing. The voices of seasoned journalists like Domínguez serve as reminders of the enduring value of truth in sustaining democratic societies.