In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising how we communicate, share information, and uphold the principles of freedom of expression. As we mark World Press Freedom Day 2025, the spotlight is on the profound impact AI has on journalism, the media, and the right to free speech.
AI and the Future of Journalism
AI is transforming the landscape of journalism by automating news production, enhancing fact-checking, and improving content personalization. These innovations enable media organizations to work more efficiently and reach wider audiences. AI tools can assist in identifying misinformation, uncovering trends, and even translating content for global accessibility.
At its best, AI supports media freedom by:
- Enhancing access to information,
- Enabling real-time global communication,
- Empowering journalists with advanced tools for research and reporting.
However, these benefits come with complex challenges that could reshape how the media operates.
The Double-Edged Sword: AI and Press Freedom
Despite its advantages, AI poses serious risks to press freedom and the free flow of information:
- Disinformation and deepfakes: Generative AI can create hyper-realistic fake content, undermining public trust in the media and spreading propaganda.
- AI-powered censorship: Governments and corporations can use AI to monitor and suppress dissenting voices, including journalists and activists.
- Algorithmic gatekeeping: Tech giants use AI algorithms to control what content gets visibility, reducing diversity in media and marginalizing smaller outlets.
- Economic threats: Generative AI tools often reuse journalistic content without proper attribution or compensation, impacting the financial sustainability of independent media.
These risks are amplified in politically unstable regions where media independence is already under threat.
AI in Democracy and Civic Engagement
AI is playing an increasing role in elections and democratic participation. On one hand, it helps combat fake news and supports fact-checking initiatives. On the other, it can be exploited to manipulate public opinion, create biased narratives, or generate AI-powered surveillance tools.
Maintaining a balance between innovation and responsibility is crucial to protect democratic freedoms and uphold freedom of expression in the digital era.
Global Commitment: World Press Freedom Day 2025
The UN Global Digital Compact stresses the importance of managing digital technologies while safeguarding privacy and fundamental rights. World Press Freedom Day 2025 will focus on how AI influences:
- Media independence,
- Press freedom,
- Access to information (SDG 16.10),
- And the need for global cooperation to address AI-related threats.
This year’s theme highlights the urgency of creating ethical frameworks for AI that protect freedom of expression and strengthen public trust in journalism.
The Origins of World Press Freedom Day
Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, World Press Freedom Day commemorates the 1991 Declaration of Windhoek, a landmark statement linking free media to democracy and human rights. Observed every May 3, the day serves to:
- Celebrate press freedom worldwide,
- Assess global media freedom,
- Defend journalists against threats,
- And honor those who lost their lives in pursuit of truth.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
As AI continues to reshape the media landscape, defending freedom of expression becomes more complex—and more vital. Journalists, governments, tech companies, and civil society must work together to ensure AI strengthens, rather than stifles, democratic discourse.