The demise of good news? Why positive stories deserve more space in the European news cycle

Virginia Kouridaki for JAEurope

In an era where bad news dominates the headlines, one can’t help but wonder — has good news lost its place in journalism? Across Europe and beyond, the media landscape seems increasingly focused on wars, pandemics, violent crimes, and social crises. The past few years alone have been filled with stories of death tolls, femicides, economic downturns, and environmental disasters, often accompanied by graphic imagery that leaves little room for reflection. In this relentless cycle of negativity, positive stories seem to have been relegated to mere footnotes, if they appear at all.

This imbalance raises an important question: do we consume negative news because it’s more important, or simply because it’s what we’re given? If media outlets continue to prioritise shocking headlines over inspiring narratives, public perception of the world will remain skewed. Fear and outrage may drive clicks, but they also shape a generation that sees the future through a lens of cynicism. And yet, real progress is happening — young people are building robots, scientists are making medical breakthroughs and communities are coming together to enact change

The solution isn’t to ignore the world’s problems. It’s to balance the narrative. Imagine a media landscape where good deeds, achievements and inspiration, are given as much weight as crisis and destruction. Where good news isn’t relegated to a two-minute segment at the end of a broadcast but is recognised as a driver of societal progress. After all, the news doesn’t just reflect reality — it shapes it.

Young Europeans, you have a pivotal role in reshaping the media narrative. By leveraging digital platforms, you can highlight and disseminate positive stories that might otherwise be overlooked. Engaging in citizen journalism, creating content that showcases local and global achievements and supporting initiatives that promote balanced reporting can foster a more nuanced media landscape. What is more, participating in media literacy programmes can equip you with the skills to critically assess news content and advocate for the inclusion of constructive stories. By actively contributing to and demanding a more balanced news agenda, you can help ensure that positive developments receive the attention they deserve.

This is where Pulse Z comes in — an exciting initiative by JA Europe aimed at empowering young people like you to shape the future of media and become active participants in driving change. If you are aged 16-25, join us in creating a news ecosystem that highlights European issues and let’s get your voice heard!