A new study from the University of Missouri School of Journalism explores “volunteer journalism” as a way to address the decline of local news. As traditional media outlets struggle or shut down, volunteers are stepping in to keep their communities informed.

Unlike citizen journalists, who often report on topics of personal interest, volunteer journalists commit to an organisation, focus on impartial news, and serve the broader public. Researchers interviewed members of 16 organisations in the United States, Denmark, and India, finding that many volunteers were filling gaps left by disappearing local news outlets.

“With traditional news organizations struggling or disappearing in many places, volunteer journalism could help fill the gap by keeping communities informed and connected,” the researchers say. “This is particularly crucial in areas where professional journalism is no longer available.”

Declining coverage

More than 2,000 news organisations have closed in the past two decades, leading to less civic engagement, more corruption, and weaker communities. While falling revenues, media consolidation, and digital platforms threaten local journalism, this study offers some hope.

By tapping into the dedication of unpaid contributors, organisations may be able to keep providing essential news. The researchers argue that volunteer journalism deserves more attention, as it could help address the crisis in local reporting. Whether it can fully replace professional journalism is uncertain, but at a time when newsrooms are vanishing, even partial solutions are worth considering.