Journalism sector challenges in Brazil

Recent studies in Brazil have highlighted various systemic challenges facing the country’s journalistic sector. In Brasília, Reporters Without Borders presented research conducted by Unicamp focused on the future of journalism over the next decade. The study proposed strategies to bolster integrity and trust, including combating disinformation, increasing transparency, and diversifying financial sustainability models.

Parallel research conducted by Fundacentro, supported by the National Federation of Journalists (Fenaj), has provided detailed data regarding the occupational well-being of media professionals. A study titled ‘Condições de Trabalho e Saúde Mental de Jornalistas no Brasil’, presented to the Social Communication Council at the Brazilian Senate, surveyed 257 professionals and revealed a mental health crisis.

Findings indicate that over 50% of respondents suffer from depression, with 16% experiencing extremely severe symptoms. Additionally, approximately 48% reported insomnia and high stress levels, while 36% reported anxiety and 21.5% reported risky or harmful alcohol consumption.

Workplace stressors include constant pressure, high workloads, and a lack of social support, with 61% of participants reporting low support from colleagues or superiors. Harassment remains a significant issue: 37% of journalists reported experiencing moral harassment, and 30% reported cyberbullying. Researchers and union representatives, including Fenaj’s Norian Segatto, noted that modern technological pressures—such as the demand for high engagement and ‘likes’—are major contributors to professional burnout. These findings have prompted calls for new protective legislation and improved working conditions.