Are reactions on social networks more extreme than those generated by TV or radio broadcasts? This is a complex question with a nuanced answer. While we still receive plenty of reactions following traditional media topics, people may reach out to us via email or direct message on various RTBF accounts. Those who follow RTBF news across all platforms are likely to be attentive on TV, radio, the web, and social networks. One key difference is that social networks enable greater responsiveness, but we as a team must thoughtfully consider how to moderate or respond to comments. We ponder the best way to tackle divisive subjects while upholding our ethical principles. We anticipate reactions to certain subjects and take care to approach them carefully. Occasionally, we may be surprised by the virulence of comments, such as with a mother breastfeeding for a long time. However, on Vews, we are lucky to have a self-moderating community that keeps debate respectful and kind. We delete comments that break the law or our code of conduct, but generally, we anticipate comments and are highly attentive to ethical guidelines when producing content.
Are the reactions on social networks more virulent than those generated by subjects broadcast on TV or radio?
“Yes and no. We still receive a lot of reactions following radio and TV topics. People write e-mails but also contact us directly on Messenger, on the various RTBF accounts. I think that the people who follow the news on the RTBF media are also attentive on TV, on the radio, on the web or on social networks.
The difference is that social networks allow greater responsiveness. On our side, we have to think about the best way to moderate or react to comments. These are discussions that we have upstream, as a team: how are we going to tackle divisive subjects while respecting our ethical rules? We are very careful even before shooting because, for certain subjects, we can anticipate the reactions. Talking about beliefs, we know it will be divisive and provoke comments. Sometimes we have surprises. Following the video of a mother who chooses to breastfeed her children for a long time, for example. There has been a huge divide between “pro” and “anti” breastfeeding. We did not necessarily expect such virulent reactions.
But on Vews, we are incredibly lucky to have a self-moderate community. It’s very particular, there really is self-regulation. Some people come to moderate, to keep a calm debate. We made a Facebook status on Ramadan. There were some interesting discussions between people. This is also what is interesting: to create discussion, with respect and kindness. Obviously, if these are comments that are outside the legality or our charter, we will hide or delete them.
But we are rarely surprised by the comments because we anticipate a lot what can cause a reaction on a subject. This is why we are extremely attentive when we produce a subject, to all the guidelines and rules of our profession.
In conclusion, while social networks do tend to generate more immediate and intense reactions, traditional media sources like TV and radio still receive their fair share of feedback. The difference lies in the level of responsiveness and the need for careful moderation on social networks. The team at Vews takes great care in producing subjects that are respectful and adhere to ethical guidelines, while also creating a space for open and respectful discussion. Ultimately, the goal is to foster healthy dialogue and understanding, even on divisive topics.