World Press Freedom Day
Under the theme Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media, this Day focuses on the major influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on journalism and the media.
AI’s contribution is undeniable, particularly through its offer of tools that can strengthen investigative journalism, facilitate content creation and support fact-checking. Greater efficiency and the means to refine data analysis are also recognized.
However, the presence of AI also brings with it a host of crucial challenges, such as the growth of misinformation and disinformation, the increased risk of surveillance of journalists, the use of deepfake technologies, and so on.
It is in this context that UNESCO is organizing a hybrid event (in Brussels and virtually) to which journalists, public decision makers and civil society players are invited. The aim is to analyze the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and ensure that it “contributes to the strengthening—and not the erosion—of press freedom and democratic values.”
This day of commemoration is also a call to reflect on the impact of digital communications systems, including social media, and the weakening of traditional media. It is also a moment to encourage, “governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom.”
The Concept Note for the conference is available in English and French.