Print media reporting on drugs and crime, 1995-1998

Abstract

There has been much criticism of the way in which the media report on drugs and crime. This paper focuses on sources used by the media, the types of drugs covered and the connection in media reporting between drugs and non-drug criminality. It concludes with some suggestions about how media professionals and stakeholders can work together to improve reporting on drugs and crime. This includes the setting up of guidelines so that drugs and crime are reported in a manner that takes account of public interest.