By Ms Monn

JOURNALISM is not only a profession dedicated to gathering and presenting information but also a vital civic duty that helps societies func­tion responsibly. By delivering accurate, timely, and relevant news, journalism equips citizens with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and en­gage meaningfully in public life. Through its ability to highlight issues, spark dialogue, and influ­ence public opinion, journalism shapes the direction of national conversations. When carried out with integrity, fairness, and ethi­cal standards, it becomes a pow­erful force that supports transpar­ency, strengthens democracy, and contributes directly to a nation’s progress and development.

Historical Perspective

Throughout history, journal­ism has evolved from simple in­formation sharing to a powerful institution that shapes national identity and public life. In earlier times, pamphlets, newspapers, and revolutionary writings played crucial roles in awakening pub­lic consciousness and mobilizing people toward change. For ex­ample, during struggles for in­dependence in many countries, journalists exposed injustices, inspired unity, and encouraged resistance against oppression. In democratic movements, the press has consistently served as a watchdog, challenging abuses of power and promoting trans­parency. From reform campaigns to nation-building efforts, jour­nalism has always been closely connected to national interests, acting as a driving force for pro­gress and meaningful societal transformation.

Journalism as a Watchdog

One of the most essential roles of journalism is its function as a watchdog, ensuring that gov­ernments, institutions, and pow­erful individuals remain account­able to the public. By monitoring actions, questioning decisions, and exposing wrongdoing, jour­nalists help prevent abuses of power that could harm society. Investigative reporting, in par­ticular, serves as a powerful tool against corruption, uncovering hidden truths and bringing illegal or unethical practices to light. When the press operates free­ly and responsibly, it promotes transparency across all sectors. This openness strengthens civic trust, as citizens feel more confi­dent that leaders are being scruti­nized and that justice and fairness are being upheld in their nation.

Educating and Empowering Citizens

Journalism plays a vital role in educating the public by pro­viding clear information about national policies, individual rights, and civic responsibilities. Through news articles, reports, and analysis, citizens gain the knowledge needed to understand how their society functions and how decisions made by leaders affect their daily lives. This in­formed awareness is essential for building a responsible and active electorate capable of making thoughtful choices dur­ing elections and participating meaningfully in democratic processes. When people are ed­ucated through reliable media, they become more empowered to contribute to social, economic, and political progress. In this way, journalism supports sustainable national development by nurtur­ing a well-informed and engaged population.

Promoting Social Cohesion

Journalism also plays an im­portant role in fostering social harmony by connecting diverse communities and encouraging mutual understanding. Through stories that highlight cultural heritage, local traditions, and the voices of different groups, the media helps people appreciate the richness and diversity within their own country. By giving space to marginalized or lesser-heard communities, journalism pro­motes inclusiveness and reduces misunderstandings that can lead to conflict. When the press pre­sents a balanced and respectful portrayal of all sectors of society, it strengthens national identity and unity. Inclusive reporting re­minds citizens that despite differ­ences, they share common goals and responsibilities, contributing to stronger social cohesion.

Challenges and Ethical Re­sponsibilities

Despite its vital role, journal­ism today faces serious challeng­es, including the spread of misin­formation, increasing censorship, and the rise of sensationalism that prioritizes attention over ac­curacy. These threats undermine public trust and distort the flow of reliable information. To address these problems, journalists must uphold strong professional eth­ics, practice careful fact-checking, and remain committed to fairness and integrity in their reporting. By adhering to these standards, the press not only safeguards the truth but also protects the nation’s long-term interests. Responsible journalism ensures that citizens receive accurate guidance, ena­bling healthy public discourse and supporting the overall stability and progress of society.

Journalism in the Digital Age

In the digital era, journalism has transformed dramatically with the rise of social media and online platforms that reshape how information is shared and consumed. These technologies offer unprecedented opportu­nities for journalists to reach wider audiences and for citizens to participate actively by shar­ing experiences, reporting local events, and engaging in public discussions. However, the speed and openness of digital communi­cation also bring significant risks, such as increased polarization, echo chambers, and the rapid spread of unverified information. To navigate this environment re­sponsibly, journalists must en­sure balanced reporting, uphold accuracy, and provide context that helps audiences interpret information critically and fairly.

Journalism for the Public Good

Journalism ultimately serves a dual purpose: informing citizens so they can actively participate in public life and supporting the na­tion by promoting transparency, accountability, and shared un­derstanding. To strengthen this mission, collaboration between journalists, educators, and civic leaders is essential. Working to­gether, they can raise media liter­acy, encourage ethical reporting, and create an environment where truth and public interest guide the flow of information. With such collective effort, journalism can continue to stand as a corner­stone of democracy, empowering citizens, uniting communities, and driving national progress toward a more just, informed, and resilient society.

One notable case of journal­ism serving national interests in Myanmar is The Global New Light of Myanmar, the country’s long‑standing English‑language newspaper. Established with the aim of presenting Myanmar’s perspectives to both domestic and international audiences, it has played a role in reporting gov­ernment policies, cultural events, and national achievements. By publishing in English, the paper connects Myanmar to the wider world, offering insights into the nation’s priorities while also shap­ing how foreign readers perceive its society and governance. Its longevity reflects the enduring importance of journalism as a bridge between citizens, leaders, and the global community.

In conclusion, this example illustrates how journalism, when aligned with civic and national goals, can become more than a source of information; it can act as a platform for dialogue, identity, and progress. Whether through watchdog reporting or cultural storytelling, journalism remains a vital force in strength­ening both freedom and national unity.