Media accountability in the digital age: Catalan journalists and citizens’ viewpoints and action proposals

In a complex scenario characterized by major transformations, media accountability acquires a fundamental value to regain citizens’ trust in journalism and its professionals. Through the triangulation of quantitative and qualitative methods, this research delves into accountability in the Catalan landscape. Specifically, it examines: (1) the perception of professionals and citizens on the elements that affect the situation of journalism in Catalonia; (2) their assessment of the effectiveness of the accountability instruments created within and outside media organizations; (3) their opinion of the users’ contribution in the production, correction and criticism of news; and (4) their assessment of the agents to whom journalists should feel responsible. Results reveal that professionals and citizens perceive the situation of journalism in Catalonia in a pessimistic way. Both groups see accountability instruments as necessary, although there is widespread lack of knowledge of certain innovative participation mechanisms aimed at improving journalistic quality. In light of these findings, the article formulates action proposals aimed at the media and other relevant actors and provides indications for future studies.