The strike marks a significant moment in the history of The Guardian, as it is the first such action in half a century, indicating deep-rooted concerns among journalists about the direction of their publication.
The timing of the strike, coinciding with the anniversary of The Observer, adds a poignant layer to the protest, emphasizing the historical significance of the publication and its role in public life.
The outcome of the strike may influence the negotiations regarding the sale of The Observer, potentially leading to a reconsideration of the decision by the Guardian Media Group.
Increased public awareness and support for the journalists' cause could result in a broader discussion about the future of traditional media in the digital age.
For the first time in 50 years, journalists from The Guardian and its Sunday edition, The Observer, have gone on strike. The strike, lasting 48 hours, was initiated to protest the sale of The Observer to Tortoise Media, an online news platform founded in 2019. Over 500 journalists participated in the work stoppage, with a significant 90% voting in favor of the action, highlighting their concerns about the future of the publication.
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) organized the strike, coinciding with the 233rd anniversary of The Observer's first publication. Laura Davison, general secretary of the NUJ, emphasized that the overwhelming support for the strike reflects the journalists' desire to voice their worries regarding the sale and its implications for the newspaper's legacy.
The Guardian Media Group (GMG), which has owned The Observer since 1993, announced the potential sale in mid-September. The NUJ is advocating for a pause in negotiations to explore alternative solutions that would protect the interests of both The Guardian and The Observer. The Observer is recognized as the world's oldest Sunday newspaper, having been founded in 1791.
