Journalists' collective representation and editorial content in newspapers

Purpose – This paper seeks to examine the intriguing juxtaposition of a bona fide independent union for journalists in the UK, which is vocal about editorial standards and interference, yet has seldom taken collective action to respond to such instances. Design/methodology/approach – A grounded approach to this phenomenon is used by way of examining the intersection of the nature and influence of journalistic professionalism, the journalists' material and economic interests and the particular approach of the union to both these matters. The data are based on qualitative fieldworks supplemented by secondary sources. Findings – The journalists and their union have yet to identify and articulate the conditions, which give rise to this situation and a strategy for defending their professional interests which is compatible with and supportive of strategies for defending their material interests. Practical implications – There is a need to develop a strategy by which journalists can collectively exert more influence over editorial content. Originality/value – The quality of content of newspapers could be enhanced by the greater influence of journalists as a collective body.