UK’s Queen Elizabeth II Expresses Support for Mainstream Media in Rare Tribute

LONDON, KOMPAS.com – Ruling British monarch Queen Elizabeth II voiced her support for mainstream media, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic.

The monarch added that journalists and news sources were providing a vital public service amid the Covid-19 crisis.

Her ringing endorsement of traditional media is in stark contrast to US President Donald Trump and other world leaders.

Read also: Trump Joins List of World Leaders Diagnosed with the Coronavirus

Her American counterpart has routinely vilified and accused established newspapers and television channels of producing “fake news” making the 94-year-old monarch’s message a rare tribute.

"The Covid-19 pandemic has once again demonstrated what an important public service the established news media provides, both nationally and regionally," she said in a message to members of Britain's News Media Association.

"As our world has changed dramatically, having trusted, reliable sources of information, particularly at a time when there are so many sources competing for our attention, is vital," the Queen wrote.

Read also: Coronavirus Misinformation is Proving to be a Contagious Trend

The impact of social media on democracy, and particularly of the colossal flows of misinformation circulating among users, are the subjects of heated and unresolved debates in several major Western countries, especially the United States.

Under Britain's unwritten constitution, the monarch does not usually speak on political matters.

The queen's decision to send a public message of support to the news media suggests she considers the subject to be uncontroversial. (Writer: Estelle Shirbon | Editor: Costas Pitas)

Source: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-britain-queen-media/britains-queen-elizabeth-expresses-support-for-mainstream-media-idUSKBN26Q194