Since the emergence of ChatGPT in November 2022, generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) has been gradually trans- forming the journalism profession. The aim of this report is to identify early trends in the use of Gen AI and its effects on the profession. Based on a study of 400 Canadian and international journalists, it examines user profiles, changes in users’ work, their perceptions of these tools, and the regulatory challenges they raise. Five key findings emerge :
- An emerging adoption, driven more by individual (young) journalists than by their organizations
- A generally positive perception of Gen AI’s impact on work quality and productivity
- A significant sense of dependence on Gen AI, particularly among younger
journalists - Strong concerns about the future of the profession, but less pronounced among
regular and dependent Gen AI users - Regulation by employers and unions is tentative and uncertain
This report aims to equip key stakeholders — journalists, media managers and executives, unions, professional associations, and others — to support a collective reflection on the ongoing transformations and to help shape a desirable future for the journalism profession.
Pasquier, V., Lespérance, C., Parent-Rocheleau, X., Turcotte-Légaré, N., Gaudet, M.-C., & Bujold, A. (2025). Generative AI and the Journalism Profession - Good or Bad News? Obvia.
Pasquier, V., Lespérance, C., Parent-Rocheleau, X., Turcotte-Légaré, N., Gaudet, M.-C. et Bujold, A. (2025). L’IA générative et la profession de journaliste - Bonne ou mauvaise nouvelle ? Obvia.