Red tape journalism, also known as "bureaucratic journalism," is a style of reporting in which emphasis is placed on bureaucracy or rules and regulations. It includes reporting on the legal and procedural aspects of a story and the political machinery working behind the scenes.
Characteristics:
1. Procedural Focus:
Red tape journalism prioritizes the technicalities, legalese, processes, regulations, and behind-the-scenes decision-making involved in a news story.
2. Documentation and Transparency:
Government documents, records, meeting minutes, and official statements often serve as primary sources for red tape journalists. They aim to provide an accurate representation of official proceedings.
3. Critical Assessment of Bureaucracy:
In red tape journalism, the journalist acts as a watchdog by closely examining the inner workings of bureaucratic systems, highlighting any inefficiencies, misuses of power, or abuses of authority.
4. Reporting on Policies:
This type of journalism places emphasis on analyzing policies and regulations, assessing their impact on the public, and examining the consequences of decisions made by government agencies, corporations, or other institutions.
5. Investigative and Expository Approach:
Red tape journalists often conduct in-depth investigations and produce long-form articles or even books to unpack complex bureaucratic issues and provide deep analysis.
6. Political Accountability:
Transparency and political accountability are frequently at the core of red tape journalism. Reporters in this field hold powerful individuals and organizations accountable for their decisions and actions.
7. Ethical Considerations:
As with all forms of journalism, red tape journalists adhere to ethical standards, such as fact-checking, accuracy, and giving proper attribution to sources.
Red tape journalism can be considered a sub-genre of investigative reporting, particularly when it involves exposing irregularities, malpractices, or corruption in bureaucratic systems. The goal is to keep these systems transparent and accountable to the public.