NVJ Launches Investigation into Media Intimidation Following Threats Against Panorama
amsterdam, zaterdag, 12 juli 2025.
Following recent threats against the programme Panorama, the Dutch Association of Journalists (NVJ) has decided to launch an investigation into intimidation within the media. This initiative comes at a time when the safety of journalists is increasingly in the news, and represents a significant step towards improving working conditions for journalists and safeguarding the integrity of the news.
NVJ Launches Investigation into Media Intimidation Following Threats Against Panorama
Following recent threats against the programme Panorama, the Dutch Association of Journalists (NVJ) has decided to launch an investigation into intimidation within the media. This initiative comes at a time when the safety of journalists is increasingly in the news, and represents a significant step towards improving working conditions for journalists and safeguarding the integrity of the news [1].
Context of the Threats
The threats against Panorama are not unexpected. In recent months, there have been several incidents where journalists have been threatened, both physically and online. These threats have a negative impact on press freedom and the ability of journalists to do their work without fear [2].
Objective of the Investigation
The objective of the NVJ’s investigation is to gain a thorough understanding of the extent and nature of intimidation within the media. It will also examine the effects of this intimidation on the mental and physical health of journalists, as well as on the quality of the news being produced [3].
Industry Reactions
The media industry has responded with concern to the threats. Editors-in-chief and representatives from various media organisations have met to discuss strategies to enhance the safety of journalists. During a meeting at the ‘House with the Columns’ in Amsterdam, which took place on Tuesday, attendees signed a pledge to make social media social again: ‘Make Socials Social Again’ [4].
Collaboration and Initiatives
Internet pioneer Marleen Stikker, who founded ‘The Digital City’ thirty years ago, is helping to bring together the coalition and will assist with the next steps. The signing commits the media to collaborate over the next two years on healthy alternatives to dominant American platforms such as Meta, X, and Alphabet (Google). Karel Smouter, editor-in-chief of Trouw, emphasised the urgency of the situation: ‘Because it is five minutes to midnight. Social media has evolved into traps where citizens get entangled in algorithms. Disinformation and content leading to depression thrive there’ [4].
Impact on Journalism
The threats and intimidation have a visible impact on journalism. Many journalists feel compelled to practise self-censorship, which can undermine the diversity and quality of the news. The NVJ’s investigation is therefore not only a response to recent events but also an attempt to find structural solutions to ensure the safety and integrity of journalism [3].
Ethical Considerations
In addition to practical aspects of safety and working conditions, there is also an ethical dimension. It is crucial that journalists are able to work independently and without fear. The integrity of the news and press freedom are at stake, and it is the responsibility of the entire society to protect these values [GPT].