20 Things to Make the News Better

The Future of Broadcast Journalism: A Conversation with Roger Mosey

In the digital age, broadcast journalism is navigating uncharted waters, balancing impartiality, diversity, and the relentless pace of news cycles. Last year, I had the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Roger Mosey, former Head of BBC Television News and Director of the BBC's coverage of the London Olympics. Mosey, who has also penned the book 20 Things That Would Make the News Better, offered a nuanced perspective on the challenges and evolution of broadcast journalism.

Roger is also the Master of Selwyn College in Cambridge and it is one of the hallmarks of the Cambridge experience that one can learn from people like Roger all the time.

Impartiality: A Fluid Concept

Mosey emphasized that impartiality is more than just avoiding bias; it’s about embracing a complex set of values, including fairness, honesty, and accuracy. In today's media landscape, where some outlets are deliberately biased, the role of impartiality becomes even more crucial. Mosey pointed out that true impartiality isn’t simply giving equal weight to opposing views but striving to seek and report the truth.

For instance, Mosey cited the BBC's approach to climate change reporting. Despite accusations of false balance, the BBC has maintained a clear stance that human-made climate change is real and urgent. Mosey argued that while it's important to present different opinions, such as those of climate change skeptics like Nigel Lawson, the overwhelming scientific consensus should not be downplayed. This approach reflects a commitment to truth rather than a superficial balance.

The Brexit Coverage: Lessons Learned

Reflecting on the BBC's coverage of Brexit, Mosey acknowledged that public broadcasters, including the BBC, were often out of touch with the sentiments outside metropolitan areas like London. He attributed this to a lack of diversity in the newsroom—particularly in terms of socioeconomic background and geographic representation. The BBC, Mosey admitted, failed to fully grasp the depth of Euroscepticism in regions like Sunderland and Morecambe, where the vote to leave the EU was significantly stronger than in the capital.

Mosey suggested that this disconnect could have been mitigated by a newsroom more reflective of the entire country, not just its metropolitan hubs. This would have allowed for a more nuanced understanding of the issues driving the Brexit vote, beyond the simplistic binary of Leave versus Remain.

Diversity in the Newsroom: A Double-Edged Sword

Diversity in the newsroom is essential for a more comprehensive and representative media. Mosey discussed the importance of having journalists from various backgrounds, noting that different lived experiences can bring valuable perspectives to news coverage. However, he also warned of the potential pitfalls when employee representative groups extend their influence into editorial decisions. While it’s crucial for all employees to feel supported and included, Mosey argued that this should not come at the cost of editorial independence or the impartiality that public service broadcasters are tasked with maintaining.

For instance, while it's vital to support LGBTQ+ rights, it’s equally important that this support doesn’t translate into biased reporting. Mosey cited the BBC’s commitment to impartiality in covering debates such as same-sex marriage in the Church of England. Despite the organization’s strong track record on LGBTQ+ issues, he emphasized the need for balanced coverage that respects differing opinions.

The Role of Public Broadcasting in a Fragmented Media Landscape

As the media landscape continues to fragment with the rise of alternative news outlets like GB News, Mosey sees a role for both public and privately funded journalism. While supportive of a diverse media ecosystem, he expressed concern over the potential dominance of partisan outlets, as seen in the United States with networks like Fox News and MSNBC. In contrast, public service broadcasters like the BBC, with their commitment to impartiality and comprehensive coverage, serve as a crucial counterbalance.

Mosey also highlighted the importance of regional news, which is increasingly under threat in the digital age. He argued that public funding is essential to sustain local journalism, which often struggles to compete with the centralized, commercially driven news models. By providing reliable, impartial news, public broadcasters play a vital role in informing citizens and supporting democracy.

Conclusion: A Call for Reflective Journalism

Mosey’s insights offer a blueprint for the future of broadcast journalism. As the media continues to evolve, the principles of impartiality, diversity, and thoughtful editorial curation remain critical. For Mosey, the key to successful journalism lies in constantly challenging narratives, embracing diverse perspectives, and above all, maintaining a commitment to truth.

In an era where the news cycle is dominated by social media and soundbites, Mosey’s call for slow, considered journalism is more relevant than ever. Public broadcasters, in particular, have a responsibility to rise above the noise, providing the in-depth analysis and context that citizens need to navigate an increasingly complex world.

What’s your take on the future of broadcast journalism? Do you believe that public service broadcasters like the BBC can continue to maintain their relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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The full episode can be watched here .

And if you wish to participate more fully in this type of experience, consider joining Cambridge Judge Business School. I have been here for more than 10 years and love the intellectual stimulation that comes from this environment.