reportasje

Reportasje is a journalistic genre used in Norwegian and several other languages to describe long-form, in-depth reporting. A reportasje presents a subject—often a person, a place, or a social issue—through detailed observation, on-site reporting, and a balanced presentation of facts, context, and quotes. It sits between straight news reporting and feature writing, combining factual rigor with narrative elements to help readers understand complexities that brief news items cannot.

Characteristics include scene-setting description, lengthy quotes, and an explanatory framework that situates events in social, political, or economic context. Reportasjes are frequently published as magazine features or extended newspaper articles and may include investigative elements, such as background research, data, and documentary evidence. The tone is generally neutral, but writers may use narrative techniques to convey implications and human impact without sacrificing accuracy.

Structure often follows a lead that draws the reader into a scene, a central "nut graf" or thesis, then a sequence of scenes, interviews, and data, culminating in a synthesis or conclusion. On-the-ground reporting, corroboration from multiple sources, and clear attribution are standard.

Ethical considerations include accuracy, transparency about sources, consent for interviews, and careful handling of sensitive subjects and anonymized information. Reportasje can also be used in broadcast media as long-form segments or in photojournalism as narrative reportage.

Historically, reportage developed from investigative and literary journalism and magazine culture, emphasizing depth over immediacy. Today, it remains a centerpiece of in-depth journalism, especially in print publications and long-form online outlets.