Convened by The African Editors Forum (TAEF) under the theme “Reclaiming Value, Rebuilding Trust, Redefining Sustainability,” the congress addressed the unprecedented pressure exerted by platform dominance, fragile business models, and the rapid evolution of digital repression.
Through its Social Media 4 Peace, UNESCO led an expert sessions on information integrity, platform governance and media regulation. The discussions focused on self-regulation and co-regulation mechanisms that protect information integrity without undermining free speech. The sessions also underscored the importance of media and information literacy (MIL) to equip audiences with skills to navigate polarized digital spheres.
The Congress concluded with a specialized workshop supported by UNESCO on Resolutions 630 and 631 adopted by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), moderated by Moxii Africa and the SOS Support Public Broadcasting Coalition. The participants called for:
- Stronger platform accountability to challenge algorithmic systems that prioritize sensationalism.
- Greater investment in African-owned digital ecosystems and reinforced ethical standards.
- A collective regional voice to secure fair compensation for journalists and ensure media policies align with international human rights standards.
