Newspaper founded in 1645 to become Web-only
PHILIPPE DESMAZES/AFP The world’s oldest continuously-operating newspaper, Post-och Inrikes Tidningar, is dropping its dead-tree edition and going exclusively digital. (Judging by their spartan website, I’d say they’re in a heap of trouble.) The paper had long since ceased to be a real force in Swedish journalism (I mean, it’s no Aftonbladet). So, in and of ...
PHILIPPE DESMAZES/AFP
The world’s oldest continuously-operating newspaper, Post-och Inrikes Tidningar, is dropping its dead-tree edition and going exclusively digital. (Judging by their spartan website, I’d say they’re in a heap of trouble.) The paper had long since ceased to be a real force in Swedish journalism (I mean, it’s no Aftonbladet). So, in and of itself, it’s no big loss.
Of course, the larger trend of newspapers struggling to make ends meet is worrisome. With the rise of the Web, news has become a commodity, and information consumers have more choices than ever. And people who want to sell their junk or rent their property don’t need the classifieds section anymore—there’s eBay and craigslist. If newspapers don’t figure out how to adapt soon, my dystopian media nightmare could become a reality. It’s not hard to imagine a future limited to colorless wire stories, Doppler radar flyovers, and 24/7 manhunts for missing teenagers.
More from Foreign Policy
A New Multilateralism
How the United States can rejuvenate the global institutions it created.
America Prepares for a Pacific War With China It Doesn’t Want
Embedded with U.S. forces in the Pacific, I saw the dilemmas of deterrence firsthand.
The Endless Frustration of Chinese Diplomacy
Beijing’s representatives are always scared they could be the next to vanish.
The End of America’s Middle East
The region’s four major countries have all forfeited Washington’s trust.
Sign up for World Brief
FP’s flagship evening newsletter guiding you through the most important world stories of the day. Delivered weekdays.
By submitting your email, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and to receive email correspondence from us. You may opt out at any time.