The transformation of interactive journalism through new media platforms in Kyrgyzstan

The aim of the research was to determine the role of independent means of transmitting, storing, and reproducing information in the media industry. The analysis of innovative formats of interactive content was conducted based on internet resources such as 24.kg, Kaktus.media, Factcheck.kg, International Budget Partnership, and April. The study examined video resources, interactive maps, infographics, and multimedia storytelling for creating reports and independent investigations. The research highlighted the influence of new media platforms on interactive journalism. The main difference between interactive journalism and traditional journalism was identified as the two-way communication process. It was noted that the popularity of new media is growing, offering new methods that differ from traditional forms of journalism. These include active interaction with users through chatbots, surveys, and more; the integration of audience participation (streams) and multimedia formats (video, photos, podcasts, infographics). The advantages of these media were identified as the rapid dissemination of information, global reach, cost minimisation, and multimedia content. The study also explored innovative formats of media journalism: interactive journalism, multimedia storytelling, data-driven journalism, journalism using artificial intelligence, social media journalism, journalism with augmented and virtual reality (VR), and gamified journalism. The analysis showed that new media platforms contribute to the functional transformation of journalism by expanding interactive formats and tools for two-way communication. However, the study does not claim to statistically measure audience growth, engagement rates, or trust levels; rather, it identifies the mechanisms through which Kyrgyz media create conditions for audience participation in interactive journalism.