Guardian editor-in-chief sets out public-interest journalism strategy against information crisis
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 6
Guardian editor-in-chief sets out public-interest journalism strategy against information crisis
2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 6
In a wide-ranging essay, she says digital platforms, AI slop and deepfakes are degrading attention, trust and shared reality, while 129 journalists and media workers were killed last year.
She argues the Guardian's Scott Trust ownership, open access funded by nearly 1.5 million monthly supporters and on-the-ground reporting help resist political, commercial and technological pressures.
The article links the information crisis to war, climate, inequality and loneliness, while backing careful AI use in reporting and stronger human-centred journalism to rebuild community and democratic debate.
As AI floods our world with 'slop,' can human-centered journalism alone be enough to defend our shared reality?
With global democracy in decline, how can citizens reclaim trust when truth itself feels manufactured?
What community-led actions can truly combat the epidemic of digital-fueled loneliness and division?
The Guardian’s £24 Million Loss Spurs Multi-Year Transformation Fueled by £1.25 Billion Scott Trust Endowment
Overview
In May 2025, Katharine Viner announced The Guardian's multi-year transformation plan to address major challenges like the rise of generative AI, audience fragmentation, and a significant £24 million loss. Supported by the £1.25 billion Scott Trust endowment, the strategy focuses on sustainability, innovation, and global growth. Key initiatives include launching a video-first podcast, expanding the US team with over 200 staff, and a global brand campaign to boost international revenue, especially in the US. The Guardian also shifted its AI approach to support journalists internally and secured a partnership with OpenAI. Upholding journalistic integrity remains central, demonstrated by winning a major libel case and exposing AI-driven misinformation, positioning The Guardian as a resilient model for independent journalism in a disruptive era.