The Rise of Solutions Journalism: Reporting Beyond Problems

Traditional news often focuses on conflict, crisis, and failure. While exposing societal problems is vital, constantly highlighting what is wrong can create despair, especially among young people. Solutions journalism offers an alternative approach by focusing on evidence-based responses to social challenges—spotlighting what works, how it works, and where it falls short.

This does not mean promoting feel-good stories or ignoring urgent crises. Rather, solutions journalism adds depth, showing how individuals, institutions, and communities are experimenting with new strategies. For example, instead of reporting only on pollution in a local river, a solutions-oriented story might explore community-led cleanup efforts or innovative filtration technologies.

The ethical value of this approach lies in providing audiences with a fuller picture of reality. It avoids cynicism and encourages constructive civic engagement. Young journalists practicing solutions journalism must still apply rigorous verification and avoid advocacy, but when done responsibly, this style strengthens public trust and empowers communities to imagine change.