Enemy of the people? The role of the media in an era of rising authoritarianism

The media plays a critical role in upholding democracy: presenting facts, promoting civic engagement and holding power to account. Despite journalists’ best efforts, we continue to see an alarming trend of authoritarian leaders being democratically elected. These leaders often discredit and attack journalists, using the law as a weapon to intimidate and silence. Time after time, we see their dismissal of good journalism going hand in hand with a rise in twisted facts and harmful disinformation. With increased polarisation and authoritarian leaders swaying the public vote, does traditional media still work? What do you do when audiences stop caring about the facts? How do you speak to those who see you as out of touch? In this session, we will discuss a path forward for navigating these challenges while asking an essential question: what change is needed?
Moderated by Antonio Zappulla.
Organised in association with Thomson Reuters Foundation.