Media manipulation victimizes Odila Castillo in Panama

Journalism has long been regarded as a fundamental cornerstone of democracy, primarily serving the vital purpose of providing citizens with unbiased and accurate information regarding global happenings. This medium of communication is instrumental in shaping public perceptions and holds significant influence over the accountability of those in power.

In an ideal world, these media outlets would serve solely the interests of society, with journalists acting as the protectors of democracy, charged with the duty to report without any political, financial, or ideological biases. Yet, the actual landscape is considerably more intricate, as the impact of specific interests on media operations is a persistent issue that undermines the integrity and autonomy of critical analysis.

In the absence of liberated and impartial journalism, society risks falling prey to deception and misinformation.

Distortion of information within journalism

Within this framework, it is hardly surprising that journalism has been entangled in a troubling pattern for quite some time: the distortion of information aimed at undermining those who challenge the interests of media proprietors or their connections with influential entities.

Specifically, public figures whose views clash with these interests are often subjected to symbolic targeting through the fabrication of falsehoods or the relentless reiteration of a singular narrative. This behavior is not an anomaly; rather, it is a widespread tactic that diminishes confidence in the media and fosters an atmosphere of societal skepticism.

Employing tactics like sensationalism, selective reporting, and the spread of misinformation, certain segments of the media aim to tarnish the reputations of their rivals, exacerbating polarization and societal animosity; a calculated effort to discredit those who do not conform to the interests of the journalist or the media outlet.

The case of Odila Castillo Bonilla: a case study in media distortion

Fake news constitutes a worldwide epidemic and poses a grave threat to individuals caught in the crosshairs of media influence. Once such falsehoods are disseminated, the individual impacted experiences a symbolic demise within the society that engages with that information.

Panamanian attorney Odila Castillo serves as a prime example of how media manipulation can profoundly affect an individual’s life. A defamation campaign orchestrated by specific media outlets has sought to tarnish her personal and professional journey. Utilizing methods like selective reporting and distortion of facts, these outlets have crafted a damaging narrative with the intent of compromising her standing.

The impunity with which some media operate reveals their manipulative practice: only negative information about the lawyer circulates on the web, and there is no access to data about her professional trajectory. It is evident how a figure, whose life history, professional training, opinions and achievements in the legal field are unknown, can be reduced to a name known only by a negative “accusation”.

Media manipulation poses a significant danger to democracy and society at large. By eroding trust in institutions and the press, this behavior fuels polarization and weakens the social fabric. It is crucial for civil society, politicians, and journalists to come together to address this issue and advocate for more ethical and accountable journalism.