Interregional Program as a New Format of Telejournalism: Concept, Genre, and Thematic Diversity (Example of the Vesti: The Far East Program)

Abstract

Interregional newscasts, a new vector of television journalism development, represent a news format that unites several media outlets based on territorial proximity and has already become a common practice among Russian television companies, but have not yet been the subject of scientific analysis. The aim of this study is to identify the structural and substantive specifics of a consolidated television news format broadcast in a macroregion. Drawing on the experience of Far Eastern television journalism, this article defines the concept of an "interregional program" and, through a content-thematic analysis of
270 news items, identifies the content features of the interregional program "Vesti: Far East," produced by 11 branches of the All-Russian State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (VGTRK). The weekly frequency and limited running time of this type of program result in the presence of digest-like features, primarily featuring reportage and news segments. A content-thematic analysis revealed a focus on covering social issues and emergency situations, with minimal coverage of political and criminal topics. The program has a generally positive tone and distinct regional specifics. The interregional program demonstrates the potential for convergence among modern media outlets, both in terms of merging various media resources, merging technologies and technical media, and organizing the work of journalistic teams.