In an era where democracy hinges on access to accurate information, the global media landscape faces growing threats and shrinking resources. Behind the decline are tech behemoths that divert advertising dollars from news outlets to their platforms, platforms which have long profited from hosting news stories, headlines, and summaries.

This business model rewards sensationalism at a time when we are just beginning to see the effects of generative AI on an informed electorate on which democracy relies.

Join us for this special panel with international experts as they discuss global efforts to support quality journalism, the need to protect free expression and diverse cultures, and the critical role of platform payments in sustaining reliable information.

Panelists: 

• Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Former Prime Minister, Iceland
• Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, United Nations
• Lee C. Bollinger, President Emeritus and Seth Low Professor, Columbia University
• Joseph E. Stiglitz, University Professor, Columbia University
• Churchill Otieno, President, The Africa Editors Forum

Moderator:

• Anya Schiffrin, Senior Lecturer and Director of the Technology, Media, and Communications specialization, Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs

Opening Remarks: 

• Wafaa El Sadr, Executive Vice President, Columbia Global

This conversation is co-sponsored by the Technology, Media, and Communications specialization at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs and Columbia World Projects. This in-person event is free and open to the public. All those interested in understanding what’s at stake for democracy and how journalism can help protect it are encouraged to attend.

Date & Time: 

Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 5:15 p.m.)

Location:

The Forum, 601 West 125th Street, Manhattanville Campus