Unveiling the Ethical Dilemmas of Investigative Journalism: A Case Study of the New Vision Uganda
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Date
2024-08-22
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
This study explores the ethical dilemmas faced by investigative journalists in Uganda and focuses on the potential harm this reporting can cause to individuals as well as how these ethical challenges are reconciled. Through a case study of the New Vision, a prominent media house in Uganda, this study examines the extent to which journalists risk infringing on privacy of persons as well as causing harm in their pursuit of public interest stories.It investigatives which strategies are used by investigative journalists to mitigate these harms and the justifications they have to balance these ethical dilemmas with the goal of informing the public. Qualitative methods are used in this research including interviews with some of New Vision's prominent investigative journalists, analysis of published stories and a review of general ethical guidelines. The findings reveal the complexities between the responsibilities of investigative journalists and the reality of exposing wrongdoing, highlighting the difficult decisions these journalists must take in navigating ethical dilemmas. This study contributes to an understanding of the difficulties investigative journalist face in carrying out their work, a broader discourse in media ethics, and an overview of the opportunities, challenges, responsibilities and ways to grow investigative journalism in this era.