As journalists, we all know the power of words. So think twice about your choice of terminology when describing countries, regions and their people
An article published in the BMJ explores how widely used terms such as 'developing countries' and 'emerging economies' can carry negative connotations and perpetuate harmful narratives.
"Classifying countries in terms of income or human capacity/skill also ignores why some countries have become ‘high income/high-skill’ or ‘resource-rich’ while others remain ‘low income/low-skill’ or ‘resource-limited’," point out the authors.
They note that these terms can inadvertently imply that wealth is an innate state, rather than the result of structures including colonialism.
The authors also explain that terms such as 'Global North' and 'Global South' and even 'East' and 'West' are often used in a way that is geographically inaccurate (with New Zealand and Australia not generally considered part of the 'Global South' or 'East' despite).
While the article is aimed at global healthcare writers and professionals, it is a useful reminder to journalists to try to be as precise and accurate as possible in their terminology.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
The Tarbell Fellowship provides early career journalists interested in covering artificial intelligence with nine-month placements at major news outlets such as Bloomberg, The Guardian, TIME, and more
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our 35th Newsrewired conference will be held 13 May 2025, News UK, London.
Our community of experts gives a heads-up on the most important shifts your newsroom needs to prepare for this year
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?
