On January 28, 2026, DW Akademie will host the closing event of its global series on journalism in the age of AI in Berlin, focusing on the opportunities and challenges posed by this technology from the perspective of the Global South. As artificial intelligence increasingly influences how information is accessed, the future of independent journalism hangs in the balance. The series culminates with a discussion on how journalism might adapt in a landscape dominated by chatbots and AI-driven news consumption.
In recent months, DW Akademie has engaged with journalists and media experts globally to explore solutions aimed at preserving journalism in the AI era. The series has taken place in various locations, each shedding light on distinct regional challenges. For instance, in Chiang Mai, Thailand, participants debated who pays for the news that fuels AI, questioning whether public-interest journalism can endure when major tech companies profit from media outputs. This event emphasized the importance of creating resilient information ecosystems and securing fair compensation for journalistic content utilized by AI systems.
In Amman, Jordan, a Day Zero event during the 18th annual forum of ARIJ gathered media professionals, policymakers, and tech industry representatives. They discussed the future viability of the media sector and digital rights within the context of AI. The forum addressed existing frameworks and potential improvements necessary to ensure the media’s survival in the MENA region.
Meanwhile, in Mexico City, the event titled “The rules of the game must change!” brought together diverse stakeholders from media, politics, and civil society to analyze the conditions needed for independent media to navigate the AI revolution effectively. Participants collaborated on strategies to create fairer market conditions, as well as shared solutions to pressing challenges facing the region.
In Chișinău, Moldova, discussions centered on the visibility, viability, and safety of media amid threats to reporters and orchestrated disinformation campaigns. Journalists and policymakers explored new legislative initiatives and the requirements Moldova must meet for European Union accession, balancing the need for robust media with the realities of misinformation.
The series will conclude with an event featuring African media experts, contributing to a comprehensive view of the challenges and prospects faced by journalism worldwide in the age of AI.
Closing event in Berlin
The Berlin event, titled “Breaking the news? Global perspectives on the future of journalism in the age of AI,” represents the culmination of this global dialogue. Experts from the regional discussions, alongside international media makers and civil society leaders, will refine insights and co-create new strategies aimed at shaping the future landscape of journalism. High-level policymakers from Germany, Europe, and beyond will also participate in the conversation.
Scheduled for January 28, 2026, the event will take place at FUTURIUM Berlin, located at Alexanderufer 2, 10117 Berlin, from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM CET. Among the speakers will be Barbara Massing, Director General of DW, alongside notable tech and AI innovators from countries including Chile, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Brazil, and Tanzania.
The insights gathered during these discussions aim to produce a roadmap for journalism’s future, emphasizing the critical need for adaptation in a rapidly evolving media environment driven by advancements in artificial intelligence.
For more information on the closing event in Berlin, please download the preliminary schedule from the DW Akademie website.
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