Breaking the news?
As artificial intelligence reshapes how people access information, the future of independent journalism is at stake. In a future where chatbots dominate news consumption, journalism can only survive if the rules of the game change. In the past months, DW Akademie has hosted events around the world to explore solutions to safeguard journalism in the AI era. The results will be discussed at a global event in Berlin in January 2026, entitled "Breaking the news? Global perspectives on the future of journalism in the age of AI".
A global dialogue series
In Chiang Mai, Thailand, DW Akademie invited journalists and media experts from the region to discuss the question "Who pays for the news that powers AI and can public-interest journalism survive when Big Tech profits from the work the media produces?" Discussions focused on strategies to build resilient information ecosystems and addressed the market imbalances that have long disadvantaged news publishers. Participants examined how to secure fair compensation for journalistic content used by AI systems and digital platforms and how to develop sustainable business models for independent media.
In Amman, Jordan, a Day Zero event at the ARIJ 18th annual forum brought together media professionals, policymakers, tech industry experts and civil society representatives to discuss questions related to the survival and future viability of the media sector as well as digital rights in the age of AI. They also addressed existing approaches to improving the policy and legal framework in the MENA region.
In Mexico City, DW Akademie organized the event "The rules of the game must change!". Participants addressed the survival and future viability of the media sector in Latin America. Representatives from the media, politics, civil society and the technology sector discussed the framework conditions necessary for independent media to take advantage of the AI revolution and contribute to the right to information. Existing approaches to creating fairer market conditions were analyzed, shared solutions to the most pressing problems discussed and ideas for a regional agenda drafted.
In Chișinău, Moldova, journalists, regulators and policy makers discussed the challenges of visibility, viability and safety of media - in an environment marked by orchestrated disinformation campaigns and threats to reporters. New legislative initiatives were on the agenda as well as requirements the country has to meet for EU accession.
An event with African media experts in January will complete the global event series.
Closing event in Berlin
The Berlin event "Breaking the news? Global perspectives on the future of journalism in the age of AI" marks the culmination of this global dialogue. Experts from the regional events, international media makers, tech industry representatives and civil society leaders will refine insights and co-create new ideas, resulting in a roadmap for the future of journalism. High-level German, European and global policymakers and experts will join the discussion.
Date: 28th January, 2026
Location: FUTURIUM Berlin, Alexanderufer 2, 10117 Berlin
Time: 9.00 am – 8.30 pm CET
Speakers include, among others: Barbara Massing, Director General of DW, Tech and AI innovators e.g. from Chile, Philippines, Ethiopia, Brazil and Tanzania
For more information on the closing event in Berlin, please download the preliminary schedule below. This event is upon invitation.
