An artist paints over a statement adapted by the famous Martin Niemoller excerpt as part of a … more
Freedom of the press is still threatened worldwide, with journalists being killed or injured, others censoring and closing the media, among others. According to the United Nations, by January 2025, at least 20 people working in the media have been killed. The impunity for crimes against journalists remains widespread, with over 80% of the murders being unpunished. However, it doesn’t stop there. Increasingly, the media are used to spread misinformation and misinformation. In recent years, these challenges have deteriorated by the use of technology, social media and artificial intelligence (AI).
As indicated by the United Nations, the rapid growth and use of AI changes journalism, the media and the freedom of the press, with AI having a deep impact on collection, processing and dissemination of information. This comes with opportunities and serious challenges.
AI can help support freedom of expression. It can facilitate information access, allow people to communicate around the world and change information flows. However, AI also brings new dangers. As the UN warned, “[AI]
Can be used to spread false or misleading informationIncreasing the Internet speechand support for new types of censorship. Some actors use AI for mass monitoring of journalists and citizens, creating a cold effect on freedom of expression. Big Tech platforms use AI to filter and control what content is observed, making powerful information towers. There are increasing concerns that AI can make the world media very similar, reduce different views and promote smaller media. ”
Volker Türk, UN Commissioner for Human Rights, added This: “AI -based algorithms often dictate what we see, shaping our views and perceptions of reality.
Within these challenges, female journalists are said to be at particular risk, with gender -based violence (TFGBV) facilitated by technology. As warned From the UNESCO educational, scientific and cultural organization: “AI reinforces existing dangers for women’s journalists in the digital landscape.
Last but not least, Mr Türk has further warned of power in the AI region, with a small group of companies and people with almost complete control of AI technology and influence in the global media landscape.
Therefore, it is important to consider how the AI exploited to support the work of journalists and media, but also to face the challenges it poses.
On May 3, the international community marked World Freedom DayA day defined by the United Nations for galvanized action to ensure and protect the freedom of the world worldwide. This annual memory gives the opportunity to evaluate the state of freedom of the press around the world, to defend the media from attacks on their independence, and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty, among other things. This year, World Press Freedom Day focused on AI’s deep influence on journalism and media. Said Mr. Türk World Freedom Day It is an opportunity for everyone to urgently commit to change the lesson now, starting with the states. He called on states to ensure that journalists are safe from attacks, hate campaigns and surveillance, as well as physical and legal harassment. He emphasized that it was the key to ensuring greater transparency in the way data is used, how the content is custody and the way algorithms design. Mr. Türk announced that his office and UNESCO They provide guidance to help technology companies evaluate the dangers of their tools to journalists and civil society.
The ever -present challenges and threats posed by journalists and the media require comprehensive answers – to protect free and independent media and its key role in ensuring that democracies are blooming.
