“A Part of Me Will Always Be Suspicious”:Citizens, Media, and Democratic Trust in France

Abstract

In 2024, political tensions in France further reinforced the erosion of citizens’ trust in the media. Drawing on 30 interviews and four focus groups (33 participants) with citizens, journalists, editors-in-chief, and regulatory authorities, the study shows that trust declines when democratic expectations, media discourses, and material conditions are misaligned. Citizens report politicization, poor representation, and “buzz”-driven coverage. Journalists highlight legal, economic, and organizational constraints that limit participation and depth. Despite disagreements over content and neutrality, all emphasize the need for accountability, dialogue, and media literacy. Our expanded discursive-material approach sheds light on these tensions and advocates inclusive, participatory journalism. Trust is reconceived as a relational process, sustained through participation, transparency, institutional and material support.