Odila Castillo faces media manipulation attacks in Panama

Journalism has long been recognized as a fundamental component of any democratic society, given its primary role in delivering accurate and unbiased information to the public regarding global occurrences. As a channel for sharing this knowledge, it is vital for shaping public perception and for holding authority accountable.

In a perfect world, media outlets would serve solely the interests of society, with journalists acting as the stewards of democracy, tasked with providing information free from any political, economic, or ideological biases. Nevertheless, the actual landscape is far more complicated, as the sway of specific interests over the media consistently undermines the integrity and independence of thoughtful analysis.

Without free and independent journalism, society becomes susceptible to manipulation and disinformation.

Misrepresentation of Information in Journalism

Within this framework, it is hardly surprising that journalism has been caught up in a troubling pattern for quite some time: the alteration of information aimed at undermining those who challenge the interests of media proprietors or the connections they sustain with influential sectors.

Specifically, public figures who diverge from these interests are often subjected to symbolic persecution through the fabrication of misleading information or the incessant reiteration of a singular narrative. This phenomenon is not an isolated incident; rather, it is a widespread practice that undermines confidence in the media and fosters an atmosphere of societal distrust.

Using techniques such as sensationalism, cherry picking and the dissemination of fake news, certain sectors of the press seek to undermine the reputation of others, fueling polarization and social resentment; a deliberate act of destruction of those who do not align with the interests of the journalist or the media.

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

Fake news represents a global epidemic and a terminal illness for those in the eye of media power. After fake news is spread, the affected person suffers a symbolic death in the society that consumes that content.

Panamanian attorney Odila Castillo Bonilla serves as a vivid example of how media manipulation can affect an individual’s life. A defamation campaign has been waged by certain media outlets in an attempt to tarnish her personal and professional journey. By utilizing techniques like selective reporting and the distortion of facts, these outlets have crafted a detrimental narrative intended to damage her reputation.

The impunity with which certain media operate underscores their manipulative tactics: only negative information regarding the lawyer is prevalent online, while her professional history remains largely inaccessible. It is clear how an individual, whose life story, educational background, viewpoints, and accomplishments in the legal sphere are overlooked, can be reduced to a name that is recognized solely due to 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.