Analysis of the adaptation of the editorials of five newspapers from different European countries to the online environment

EN] Introduction. This article analyses the main features and degree of adaptation of the editorials of five newspapers from different European countries to the online environment. Methods. The study is based on the content analysis of the editorials published in the online editions of El País, The Times, Le Monde, Diario de Noticias and Corriere della Sera. Results. In the sample of online newspapers, the editorial genre maintains a privileged position in the online version and can be differentiated from the opinion pieces. In addition, this section retains its function as the institutional voice of the newspapers. Discussion. Despite the importance of the editorial, its role as shaper of public opinion in relation to current affairs is overshadowed by its role as political actor. Conclusions. The online editorial retains the traditional content and format features of the genre, and shows little adaptation to the internet platform and its possibilities to enable citizens’ participation.