Refreshing journalism or cheap propaganda?

In the digital age, journalism has transformed. Influencers and vloggers now shape public opinion, often covering stories overlooked by traditional media. This shift offers fresh perspectives but also raises concerns, especially when it comes to objectivity and ethics. A recent example is a travel vlogger’s video featuring an interview with Jimmy Cherizier, also known as “Barbecue,” a notorious Haitian gang leader. Cherizier’s nickname stems from reports of him burning his victims alive, though he claims it originates from his mother’s barbecuing.

The vlogger and Cherizier drive through the streets of Haiti together, discussing the many problems of the country. The footage shows how Cherizier is seen as a kind of folk hero by residents from Haiti’s disadvantaged neighborhoods, who view him as someone who stands up for their rights against a corrupt system. Viewers reacted enthusiastically, with some comments reading, “Biggest accomplishment of whole YouTube,” and “I learned more on Haiti in one video than ALL videos I have watched on this country so far! Hands up and kudos to you, Timmy.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xxg3WrhfsLI&ab_channel=TimmyKarter

These reactions highlight the vlogger’s ability to shed light on aspects of Cherizier’s motives that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Yet, this approach raises fundamental questions about the ethics of journalism on social media. While the video may offer a perspective not typically seen in traditional media, it risks overlooking the darker side of Cherizier’s actions and the reasons why he earned his ominous nickname. By focusing on the narrative of resistance against corruption, the vlogger risks providing a platform that romanticizes a complex figure whose reputation is also shaped by brutal violence. Social media has drastically changed the way we consume news. Traditional news organizations such as newspapers and TV stations are increasingly being overtaken by independent content creators, who have the freedom to report events without the constraints of editorial guidelines. At first glance, the video appears inspiring and even an example of good journalism. The vlogger manages to look beyond traditional media, which are often influenced by a Western and colonial past. The video evokes sympathy for Barbecue and his fight against corruption. However, the harsh reality of the violent actions of his gang and their impact on the broader Haitian population is scarcely or not critically addressed. This gives the video an almost romanticized portrayal of a man who, according to other sources, is responsible for bloody conflicts and terror.

This is where the danger of this form of journalism lies: telling an engaging story without the nuance and fact-checking needed to understand the full picture. In attempting to offer a new perspective, there is a risk that reality is distorted into a story where the protagonist—no matter how complex—is depicted too favorably. In the case of this vlogger, one might wonder if he, consciously or unconsciously, was used as a tool for the gang leader to spread his version of reality. Propaganda is not always clear and overt; it can be subtle and wrapped in captivating stories that appeal to our desire for excitement and new perspectives.

The popularity of social media and independent content creators offers the chance to discover new stories and shed light on underreported topics. But it comes with great responsibility, both for the creators and the audience. Journalism is more than just telling an exciting story. It requires research, nuance, and the ability to illuminate all sides of a story. Without these elements, even the most well-intentioned attempt at reporting becomes a potentially dangerous tool for propaganda.