A recent investigation by the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) explores the media consumption habits and trust levels of Hungarian citizens. Television remains the most viewed and trusted medium, whereas print media is regarded as the least credible. Interestingly, trust in all forms of media varies significantly depending on age groups, with younger audiences expressing higher confidence levels.

Exploring the NMHH Study on Media Consumption Trends

In a comprehensive study conducted during an era marked by rapid digital transformation, the NMHH unveiled significant insights into Hungary's media landscape. The findings reveal that 71 percent of Hungarians aged between 18 and 79 watch television daily, positioning it as the most popular medium. Social media closely follows with a usage rate of 66 percent, while both online and traditional print media lag far behind in popularity.

Despite overall low levels of trust in media, television retains its status as the most reliable platform, especially for political news. Approximately one-third of respondents identified TV as their most trustworthy source, even though 72 percent perceive it as biased. Online news websites rank second in terms of credibility, while print media faces the highest level of skepticism.

Contrary to expectations, social media is seen as the least biased platform, yet only half of the participants consider it dependable. Additionally, 78 percent of Hungarians emphasize the importance of political news independence. The study also highlights increasing concerns about misinformation, as 90 percent of respondents have encountered false news stories. Online platforms, including social networks and news websites, are primarily responsible for spreading disinformation, with three-quarters of misleading content being politically themed.

Interestingly, the ability to identify fake news diminishes with age, while higher education correlates with better media literacy. However, only a small fraction (4 percent) of individuals report false information when they encounter it. Regarding artificial intelligence in journalism, Hungarians generally hold neutral views, appreciating AI’s efficiency in reducing workload but remaining cautious about its potential role in spreading misinformation.

From this journalist's perspective, the NMHH study offers valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of media consumption and trust in Hungary. It underscores the need for improved media literacy across all age groups and emphasizes the importance of combating misinformation effectively. As society continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, fostering critical thinking and encouraging the reporting of false information will be crucial steps toward building a more informed and engaged public.