Urban Mislej

Why taking time can lead to better truths - aka "Slow Journalism"

In a digital world that rewards speed, slow journalism offers a deliberate alternative. Instead of racing to publish the fastest headline, slow journalism emphasizes depth, accuracy, and thoughtful storytelling. It gives journalists the time needed to investigate, verify, and build meaningful relationships with sources.

For young journalists, adopting a slow-journalism mindset can feel counter-cultural. Many start their careers in environments where clicks, algorithms, and deadlines drive content decisions. Yet the most impactful stories often emerge from long-term observation - spending weeks interviewing community members, revisiting data, or witnessing an issue over time.

Slow journalism also counters the misinformation cycle. When journalists rush, mistakes happen. Corrections rarely travel as far as the original headline, leaving lasting confusion. Taking time ensures complexity is not lost in the pursuit of virality.

Ethical reporting doesn’t mean ignoring breaking news; it means balancing speed with responsibility. Slow journalism invites audiences to pause, reflect, and understand the world beyond the noise, and that is a powerful public service.