The Global Media Forum (GMF) commenced today at the World Conference Centre in Bonn, Germany, with a keynote speech by Deutsche Welle (DW) Director General, Peter Limbourg, who stressed the need for journalists to use artificial intelligence responsibly.
Some Cameronian media practitioners, including Bamenda-based journalist Mbuh Stella, are among the forum’s dozens of participants.
This year’s theme, “Sharing Solutions,” was at the forefront of Limbourg’s address, during which he emphasized the necessity of collective efforts in tackling the media industry’s multifaceted challenges.
“In a time of multiple challenges, sharing solutions is a prudent strategy for us all,” Limbourg stated, highlighting the forum’s central motto.
He addressed the pressing issues journalism faces today, particularly with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and the surge of disinformation.
Limbourg stressed the critical responsibility journalists have in harnessing AI. “As journalists, we must embrace AI responsibly to maintain public trust, ensure accuracy in reporting, and support democracy,” he asserted.
He further emphasized that fact-based and constructive journalism is vital in countering propaganda and disinformation. “True progress is not achieved when machines alone produce content or set the news agenda. AI can assist, but crucial decisions in journalism must always be made by humans. Human oversight is key to mitigating AI-related misinformation,” Limbourg said.
Limbourg’s speech resonated with the forum’s theme, urging media professionals worldwide to collaborate and share strategies to overcome the current challenges.
“In a time of multiple challenges, sharing solutions is a prudent strategy for us all,” he reiterated, reinforcing the importance of unity and cooperation in the media sector.
As the Global Media Forum progresses, participants will engage in a series of discussions and workshops aimed at fostering innovative approaches and shared solutions, ensuring the resilience and reliability of journalism in an era of rapid technological advancements and pervasive misinformation.
