International
2026 Barometer Shows Erosion of Trust in Media: Calls for Transparency
A recent survey highlights that 61% of the public distrusts media coverage of major news topics, revealing a significant disconnect between journalists and their audience. To rebuild trust, many French respondents call for clearer boundaries between news and opinion, along with greater transparency and citizen involvement in media.
An annual survey conducted by La Croix and the Verian Institute reveals the state of public trust in the media in 2026. During the “Medias en Seine” event, it is announced that 61% of the 1,500 participants express distrust towards how major news topics are handled by the media. While this represents a slight decrease from 2024, it marks an increase compared to 2023. The distrust towards journalism remains significant, with 34% of French respondents holding a negative opinion of the profession.
One contributing factor is the public’s limited understanding of the media’s workings, leading to various misconceptions. A notable finding indicates that 66% of respondents have never interacted with a journalist, highlighting a disconnect between the media and the public. Additionally, over 70% of those surveyed wish to see more citizen involvement in media coverage.
The phenomenon of informational fatigue is also highlighted, with 44% feeling overwhelmed by distressing news, largely due to the repetition of certain stories, such as Nicolas Sarkozy’s legal troubles. Conversely, issues like end-of-life legislation and mental health are perceived as underrepresented in media coverage. To rebuild trust, a significant majority of the public demands a clear distinction between news and opinion, independence for journalists from media owners, and increased transparency regarding the use of artificial intelligence. These preferences may explain the strong recent audience ratings of a France Culture program, reflecting a desire for depth and independence in journalism.
