By skyforbes 
By Safia Arjumand,
26 June, 2025
In 2025, TikTok is more than dance trends and viral memes — it’s a legitimate source of news for millions, especially Gen Z.
But what happens when journalism meets an algorithm built for entertainment?
TikTok’s influence on news consumption is undeniable.
A breaking event—from protests to wildfires—can be witnessed in real time through the eyes of everyday people. These short, raw videos humanize headlines in a way traditional broadcasts rarely do.
But they also raise crucial questions:
• Who’s verifying the facts?
• Are we seeing the full picture?
• What stories are we not seeing?
TikTok’s For You Page rewards engagement, not accuracy.
Content that’s emotional, controversial, or shocking rises faster than well-researched reporting. This creates what some call “algorithmic journalism”—stories shaped by what performs, not what’s true or urgent.
Still, many journalists are adapting. Newsrooms like The Washington Post and BBC News now have TikTok teams, breaking down complex stories in 60 seconds. Independent journalists are also using the platform to build trust and speak directly to their audiences.
The upside? News feels more human, more accessible, and more participatory. The downside? It’s easy to mistake visibility for credibility.
As journalism moves into short-form storytelling, the challenge is clear: how do we inform, not just perform? How do we stay factual while being engaging?
This blog will keep tracking that balance.