It's English-language news. Unsurprisingly it's dominated by English-speaking media companies and journalists, and that has a huge impact on what we think of as the 'global' narrative.
I really enjoy your perspective. Part of my issue with what you would call “international” news is that I often struggle with foreign accents - even British ones at times - and sometimes even US ones, although I live in the US. I wonder if news producers are trying to find the most “generic” voice possible. It has to be tough on people whose voices aren’t generic enough.
You’re right. Local culture drives what’s presented and how it’s presented. Ukraine is often ignored here. However, you can’t get away from Israel’s invasion of Gaza, and, of course, trump. I want a different perspective from what US media is trying to promote to drive their ratings. Although I do use other sources, I tend to get my international news from Sky. I understand the presenters.
“Third world face, first world voice” is an interesting concept. I’ll be looking out for that. Thanks.
Shout out to @euronews who did make a big effort to promote voices that matched stories and redefine what glocal meant. Agree how much value local knowledge adds.
For bilingual reporters I work with the truly excellent Johannes Pleschberger, Evangelos Sipsas and Li Jianhua. And I'd love to work with others across Europe if anyone wants to get in touch. Duncan Hooper
This is so relatable. I was really into UK politics at uni and wanted to become a political correspondent but was basically shot down by my mentor because of my accent (I’m Polish by birth). Eventually I ended up working at CNN International and Al Jazeera English but knew I would be unlikely to ever end up in front of the camera, especially at the former (I did come close at the latter, but not quite). Very frustrating. Glad to read a similar experience distilled such a well written newsletter, thank you.
I really enjoy your perspective. Part of my issue with what you would call “international” news is that I often struggle with foreign accents - even British ones at times - and sometimes even US ones, although I live in the US. I wonder if news producers are trying to find the most “generic” voice possible. It has to be tough on people whose voices aren’t generic enough.
You’re right. Local culture drives what’s presented and how it’s presented. Ukraine is often ignored here. However, you can’t get away from Israel’s invasion of Gaza, and, of course, trump. I want a different perspective from what US media is trying to promote to drive their ratings. Although I do use other sources, I tend to get my international news from Sky. I understand the presenters.
“Third world face, first world voice” is an interesting concept. I’ll be looking out for that. Thanks.
Are some 'regional' British accents, also at a disadvantage as much as 'foreign' accents?
Shout out to @euronews who did make a big effort to promote voices that matched stories and redefine what glocal meant. Agree how much value local knowledge adds.
For bilingual reporters I work with the truly excellent Johannes Pleschberger, Evangelos Sipsas and Li Jianhua. And I'd love to work with others across Europe if anyone wants to get in touch. Duncan Hooper
This is so relatable. I was really into UK politics at uni and wanted to become a political correspondent but was basically shot down by my mentor because of my accent (I’m Polish by birth). Eventually I ended up working at CNN International and Al Jazeera English but knew I would be unlikely to ever end up in front of the camera, especially at the former (I did come close at the latter, but not quite). Very frustrating. Glad to read a similar experience distilled such a well written newsletter, thank you.