Dear reader,

Journalism is facing daunting and existential threats. The economic foundations of the news industry have been ripped apart by social media platforms.

Over the past two decades, thousands of newspapers around the world have closed or shrunk beyond recognition. In their place, billionaire-controlled algorithms have flooded public discourse with misinformation.

At the same time, journalists are under growing political pressure. From exclusion and censorship to harassment and violence, those who seek to hold power to account are being silenced. Authoritarian and anti-democratic leaders are working to weaken press freedom and take control of the information space. Donald Trump's recent White House ban on journalists from CNN and other media outlets is the latest chilling example.

This is not a distant threat. It is happening now. And it strikes at the heart of truth, accountability and democracy.

If you believe in the critical importance of independent journalism, please consider supporting the Guardian today with a one-off contribution. Or, better yet, support us every month.