The 19th edition of the Global Media Forum (GMF), the annual international and interdisciplinary media conference of Deutsche Welle (DW), which brings together media professionals from around the world, is scheduled to take place at the World Conference Center in the historic city of Bonn, Germany, on June 23 and 24, 2026.
Holding under the theme “Journalism out loud,” the event will explore how journalism can stay bold, credible, and democratic in an age of disinformation, polarisation, and rapid technological change.
Expected to host over 2,000 participants from about 120 countries with the overarching goal of “shaping the future of journalism,” this year’s conference will serve as a vital platform for dialogue among journalists, digital activists, creators, civil society actors, and political decision-makers from across the globe.
Key sessions are expected to examine how newsrooms can maintain human-led editorial standards as generative AI becomes the primary tool for content processing and distribution; address the challenge of carrying out journalism in conflict zones as impunity for crimes against journalists remains the norm, and explore new revenue streams for local and independent outlets in the context of the ongoing search for sustainable media models.
A regular feature in the event is the presentation of the DW Freedom of Speech Award, which honours individuals or initiatives that have shown exceptional courage in defending media freedom. Although the 2026 winner has not yet been announced, the award ceremony is expected to follow the tradition of powerful keynote speeches from global figures who have graced the stage in the past.
“In a world where propaganda and censorship are being weaponised with more technical precision than ever before, the Global Media Forum is more than just a conference,” said Peter Limbourg, Director General of Deutsche Welle, in a preliminary statement. “It is a necessary gathering of free voices to withstand the storm and find shared solutions.”
For those unable to travel to Bonn, the forum will maintain its hybrid format, offering virtual passes and live-streaming all major plenary sessions to ensure global accessibility.
In their call for session proposals, the organisers said they are seeking sessions that are shaped by more than one voice and reflect diverse people, backgrounds, and perspectives; are timely and connected to current challenges in journalism; offer clear relevance and value for participants; and put strong emphasis on engaging formats and thoughtful implementation.
The forum is organised by Deutsche Welle, Germany’s international broadcaster, established under German public law and funded by the German federal tax budget.
Questions about the forum should be directed to vanessa.mittmann@dw.com.
