Title: Journalism in an age of populism and polarisation: lessons from the migration debate in Italy
Time: 10:30
Location: Room A, Building Zeta
Type: Research talk
Speaker:  Lucia Schmidt
Abstract: How should journalists adapt their editorial strategies to overcome extreme polarisation and the tactics of populist politicians? Over the past year,c we worked on a unique project with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera and the London School of Economics Arena. We analysed different approaches to writing about migration in Italy, a highly controversial topic in the country. How can one cover such issues in a way that promotes civil engagement, enhances trust and a fact-based discourse? In order to find an answer, we established a unique set of ‘public service spirited’ metrics and analysed thousands of online comments. The study was presented at a workshop in London with senior editors and journalists from the BBC, Observer, Financial Times and others.