Research findings on agricultural journalism presented at ENAJ symposium in Brussels
Brussels, 26 March 2026
Katharina Seuser (Hochschule Bonn‑Rhein‑Sieg of Applied Sciences) talked about research on agricultural journalism in the context of the Horizon Europe project EU‑FarmBook. Seuser presented key findings of the study “How agricultural journalists report on innovation and tech in Europe – a study in 11 countries” during the second symposium of the European Network of Agricultural Journalists (ENAJ) at the Committee of Regions.
Based on interviews and insights from 11 countries, Seuser’s study examines journalists’ professional self‑perception, their sources and formats, and changing workflows between print, online and social media. She reported that ethical standards in agricultural journalism largely align with those of mainstream media and highlighted a practitioner quotes, including: “Ag journalists should not only focus on production details, but they should also explain the big picture from Farm to Fork.” At the same time, definitions of “innovation” vary between regions – yet innovations often provide strong story angles. Farms and farmers remain the most important sources; cross‑border perspectives are common; and exclusive, on‑farm reporting continues to be highly valued.
Seuser also pointed to growing pressure from competing expectations of different interest groups and noted that many influencers and advertising bloggers in the sector are farmers themselves. Looking ahead, she argued that despite concerns about AI, professional journalism will remain indispensable, especially when it comes to specialist knowledge and explaining increasingly complex topics. She concluded that agricultural journalism depends on timely access to relevant information and background materials, and above all on respect for independent reporting. Seuser added that forums like this help journalists present their work and engage with general‑interest media, which are showing growing interest in the agricultural sector.
The symposium took place in a hybrid format and was live‑streamed. In addition to her research within the EU‑FarmBook project, Prof. Seuser serves on ENAJ’s Management Committee, strengthening links between academia, professional practice and European agricultural communication.
About the European Committee of the Regions (CoR): The CoR is the EU’s advisory body representing cities and regions. It issues non‑binding opinions on EU initiatives affecting local and regional authorities and is based in the Jacques‑Delors building in Brussels.
