Radio Canada hosts community discussion on trust in media

Tashi Farmilo

Radio-Canada hosted an interactive public discussion at the Université du Québec en Outaouais to explore trust in the media, drawing a crowd of engaged participants eager to share their perspectives on journalism and information consumption.

Moderated by Mélanye Boissonneault, a familiar voice from Les matins d’ici, the event featured a panel of prominent journalists and media professionals, including Catherine Lanthier, Mathieu Nadon, and Frédéric Pépin. The discussion delved into issues such as declining public trust in news organisations, the rise of misinformation, and the role of transparency in rebuilding confidence.

Audience members actively participated using the Slido platform, which allowed real-time input and polls. One poll revealed that many attendees rated their trust in media at a moderate level, with a significant portion placing their confidence at 8 out of 10. Another question prompted attendees to highlight the most important qualities for journalists, with “integrity,” “objectivity,” and “impartiality” emerging as top values.

During the discussion, attendees raised concerns about the diversity of perspectives in media reporting, particularly in international coverage. One participant noted that Canadian media often underrepresents global stories compared to European outlets. “It’s important to cultivate interest in international issues and expose audiences to global realities,” said a panellist in response, emphasising the media's role in fostering awareness.

Panellists also shared insights into their professional routines, addressing how they verify information, navigate editorial challenges, and strive to maintain impartiality. Frédéric Pépin, a journalist with a focus on municipal affairs, stressed the importance of transparency in the reporting process. “Trust is built when audiences understand how stories are researched and verified,” he explained.

The event concluded with a call for ongoing dialogue between journalists and the public. Boissonneault encouraged attendees to stay engaged and continue sharing feedback to help media outlets better meet audience needs. For many in attendance, the evening underscored the importance of fostering trust through open communication and accountability.

Held in a university setting, the forum reflected the democratic values of debate and critical thinking. As one attendee remarked to the crowd, “Events like this remind us how crucial it is to have spaces where we can discuss the challenges facing the media and work towards solutions together.”