Media experts in Australia say people are increasingly exposed to information shaped by social media algorithms, which can influence the type of content they see.

World News Day asks the public to do three things: know the facts, understand what matters, and choose trusted journalism.

More than 1,000 newsrooms across 100 countries are marking World News Day today, highlighting the importance of trusted journalism as social media and artificial intelligence continue to change how people receive information.

Artificial intelligence is also making it easier to create videos, images and other content that can appear convincing, even when the information is false or misleading.

The experts say this makes it increasingly important for audiences to look beyond a headline and consider where information comes from, how it was produced and whether it has been verified.

Why newsroom processes matter

Professional news organisations operate through editorial processes designed to check and verify information before it is published.

These processes involve journalists, editors and producers who assess information, check sources and are accountable for what their organisations publish.

Media experts say journalism is not infallible, but professional newsrooms have standards and accountability mechanisms that are often not present on social media.

AI is also beginning to influence what information people see online, raising concerns about whether locally produced journalism will continue to reach audiences.

Research cited by the experts found that some AI systems favour major international news organisations while giving less visibility to local journalism.

For Pacific countries such as Vanuatu, access to reliable local reporting remains important because local journalists provide information about issues directly affecting communities.

Audiences also have a role

AI can also provide useful tools for journalism, including helping make information easier to understand and checking sources.

However, media experts say accountability remains important as people navigate an increasingly crowded information environment.

World News Day is therefore also a reminder for audiences to question what they see online, check the source of information and distinguish between verified journalism and unverified content.

As social media and AI continue to change the way news is produced and consumed, trusted journalism remains an important part of helping communities access accurate information.