The XL Andalusia Journalism Awards ceremony took place in Seville. On this day, attention was focused not only on the winners, but also on the words of the autonomous region’s president, Juan Manuel Moreno. He addressed those gathered, urging them to uphold professional standards and ethics in journalism, especially amid the growing flow of information and the emergence of pseudo-media outlets.
Moreno noted that today people are confronted with an overwhelming volume of messages coming from a wide range of sources. In an environment where it is hard to distinguish fact from fiction, many choose the simplest and most accessible news without questioning its accuracy. According to him, this makes society vulnerable to manipulation and misinformation.
Challenges of Our Time
The president of Andalusia emphasized that modern technologies contribute to the spread of fake news. He recalled that in the past, information was created by professionals in specialized newsrooms, whereas now anyone can present themselves as a journalist. However, in Moreno’s view, only true journalists have the necessary expertise and adhere to ethical standards, setting them apart from pseudo-media.
He specifically highlighted the importance of accuracy, credibility, and responsibility in journalism. Moreno called on his colleagues not to succumb to the temptation of easy sensationalism and to always verify facts in order to maintain audience trust.
Winners and Their Stories
This year, the jury recognized several works that went beyond local stories and received national acclaim. Among them was an interview with the torero Morante de la Puebla, published in ABC newspaper. In it, the renowned matador spoke candidly about his struggle with psychological challenges and how they have affected his life and career.
The Mucho Deporte.com portal received a special award for its contribution to the development of sports journalism in Andalusia. Over 25 years, the website has become the main source of information about Seville’s two leading football clubs and regional sports.
International recognition
Photographer Daniel Pérez García-Santos received an award for international projection. His images dedicated to Malaga’s Holy Week religious traditions have been published in outlets such as The Guardian, The Times, and National Geographic.
Another photography award went to Alejandro Cámara, who captured the iconic Alhambra during a major blackout. This shot became a symbol of the vulnerability even the most famous landmarks face.
Television and radio
The Andalucía Directo program on Canal Sur was recognized for its unique approach to covering regional life. Over the years, it has become the longest-running show in Spanish TV history, surpassing even legendary programs. In the radio category, the podcast “Parot, el hombre sin alma,” which focused on the arrest of an ETA terrorist outside Seville’s walls 35 years ago, took the top spot. The project reconstructed the details of one of the city’s most high-profile police operations.
Canal Sur also received the award for Best Infographic, highlighting the high quality of visual news presentation in the region.
Honorary Awards
Journalist Carlos Herrera was recognized for his outstanding contribution to the profession. Moreno called him a true ambassador of Andalusian talent, who reports on events not only in Spain, but also beyond its borders.
The jury included leading representatives of regional and national media, as well as heads of information services of the Andalusian government. Their selection emphasized the importance of local stories in shaping public opinion across the country.
