A worldwide interview report of Reuters institute found that social media platforms and video-sharing networks have become the primary source of news for millions of people worldwide, surpassing traditional news websites and apps in many countries.
The Reuters Institute’s Digital News Report 2026 came up with the findings, adding that growing influence of independent creators and influencers in shaping public understanding of current affairs
The report, based on nearly 100,000 interviews across 48 markets, found that social media and video platforms now attract larger news audiences than publishers’ own digital platforms in 30 of the surveyed markets. The shift is particularly pronounced among younger audiences, who are increasingly consuming news through platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook rather than directly visiting news websites.
Researchers noted that traditional news organizations continue to lose direct audiences as users rely more heavily on third-party platforms and content creators for information. The trend is most visible among people aged 18 to 34, a demographic that is moving away from news websites at a faster pace than older generations.
The report also highlights the growing influence of independent creators and influencers in shaping public understanding of current affairs.
At the same time, concerns remain over misinformation, declining trust in news and the challenge of ensuring reliable information on social media platforms. Globally, trust in news has fallen to 37 per cent, the lowest level recorded since the Reuters Institute began tracking the indicator a decade ago.
The findings underscore a rapidly changing media landscape in which publishers are being forced to adapt their strategies, invest in video content and strengthen their presence on social platforms to reach younger audiences. Industry experts say the shift could have long-term implications for journalism, advertising revenues and public access to verified information.
