Sat May 03 19:24:37 UTC 2025: ## Journalism’s Future Uncertain Amidst Authoritarian Trends and Technological Disruption: Veteran Journalist Warns

**Chennai, India (May 4, 2025)** – Veteran American journalist Norman Pearlstine delivered a stark warning about the future of journalism at the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) convocation on Saturday. Speaking at the Lawrence Dana Pinkham Memorial Lecture 2025, Pearlstine highlighted the escalating threats to press freedom from increasingly authoritarian governments in both India and the U.S., coupled with the disruptive impact of technology and AI.

Pearlstine noted the declining trust in media fueled by government attacks on journalists and accusations of “fake news.” He cited Reporters Without Borders’ 2024 Press Freedom Index, ranking India 151st and the U.S. 55th out of 180 countries, emphasizing the precarious state of press freedom globally. He warned that the U.S. ranking could worsen if President Trump’s attacks on the press continue.

While acknowledging the potential of AI to streamline news production, Pearlstine emphasized the challenges posed by technological advancements, including increased misinformation and media fragmentation. He stressed the enduring need for factual reporting to empower citizens and hold power accountable.

N. Murali, Trustee of the Media Development Foundation (MDF) and Director of The Hindu Group of Publications, pointed to the dominance of digital media and the lack of diversity and independence in media ownership. Sashi Kumar, Chairman of MDF and ACJ, added that traditional media revenue models are drying up, forcing adaptation to the changing landscape. The ACJ, he said, is responding by integrating its journalism curriculum across various media platforms. The ACJ Alumni Association’s website was also launched at the event.

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