How the BBC Can Resist Entrumpification
The Guardian letters discuss the concept of 'entrumpification,' a term describing Trump-era attacks on the BBC and other strong democratic institutions aimed at undermining their credibility.
The BBC recently admitted an editorial error and issued an apology, which many suggested should have ended the matter. However, subsequent reactions included lawsuits, orchestrated outrage, and denunciations of fake news, framing the error as evidence of systemic dishonesty.
A proposed approach to counter this involves a 'both-and' defence: acknowledging the editorial error while vigorously defending the BBC's independence. The programme's central thesis is based on evidence-based findings, and investigations should proceed without fear or favour.
Entrumpification is described as succeeding when institutions focus more on the attacker's demands rather than what is right. To build resilience, collaboration among the BBC, government, communities, and citizens is essential.
Contributor Michele Ryan suggests a Guardian-funded public contributions campaign to demonstrate democratic support for an independent BBC. Additionally, Mike Pender offers a provocative idea of barring US entry to people who admit to paying the BBC licence fee, highlighting the intensity of views expressed in the letters.
These discussions reflect a broader debate within the Guardian over the BBC's coverage of Donald Trump, US politics, and media accountability, emphasizing the importance of protecting the broadcaster's independence.
