A new report indicates a continuing decline in news interest among the Dutch population, falling from 61% in 2018 to a projected 45% in 2026. This trend is observed across all age groups, but is particularly pronounced among young people. While overall interest wanes, social media is increasingly becoming a primary news source for those aged 18-34, rising from 20% to 33% since 2018. However, users often passively encounter news on social media rather than actively seeking it out. The report also highlights the growing influence of “news influencers” and a slight increase in the use of AI chatbots for news consumption, particularly among younger demographics. Despite increased social media usage, a majority – 51% – of respondents express concerns about the reliability of news found on these platforms, revealing a paradox of access and trust. The study, conducted by the Dutch Media Commission in collaboration with the Reuters Institute, reflects a broader international trend.