In a video message delivered for World Press Freedom Day, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, addressed the critical role of a free and independent media in an increasingly complex world. With the theme of this year’s observance – “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media” – Türk highlighted the profound challenges journalists face in today’s digital age.
“A free and independent media is the lifeblood of a resilient society,” Türk emphasized, urging the global community to reflect on the essential role that the press plays in promoting understanding, critical thinking, and dialogue. Despite these contributions, he warned that the environment for journalists has become increasingly hostile. From the frontlines of war to the heart of climate crises, the media continues to expose harsh truths, but at great personal risk.
The video message underscored that journalists – particularly photographers, videographers, and investigative reporters – are on the frontlines of truth-telling. They expose human rights violations, government abuses, and the reality of global crises. Yet, they do so under constant threat. So far this year, at least 20 media workers have been killed, and impunity remains rampant. Over 80% of journalist killings remain unpunished, and many face harassment, torture, and even death simply for doing their jobs.
However, Türk also addressed a new, emerging threat to press freedom: the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI). AI technologies are drastically reshaping how information is produced, shared, and consumed. While AI can assist journalists by enhancing efficiency and improving access to information, it also poses significant risks to press freedom. AI-driven algorithms control the content we see online, influencing public perception and shaping political discourse. Politicians and governments, in turn, are increasingly using AI to manipulate information, advance their agendas, and monitor journalists and their sources.
“Artificial intelligence is an important tool, but it is also a threat when it is used to control, censor, and monitor,” Türk warned, pointing out that AI systems often violate journalists’ right to privacy. AI-based surveillance tools used by states to track journalists have a chilling effect, making media workers hesitant to report freely. The situation is even more concerning for women journalists, who are disproportionately targeted for harassment and abuse.
Moreover, the concentration of AI technology and media power in the hands of a small group of corporations and individuals is a growing concern. These entities wield immense influence over the global media landscape, controlling the flow of information and silencing dissenting voices with the click of a button.
The High Commissioner called for urgent action to address these challenges. States, he stressed, must step up to protect journalists from physical and legal harassment, surveillance, and online hate campaigns. Governments must also regulate AI with a focus on human rights, ensuring transparency in data usage, content curation, and algorithmic design. Media concentration laws must be updated to reflect the dominance of tech platforms and foster a diverse media environment that secures space for independent journalism.
Tech companies, too, play a pivotal role. As part of an ongoing effort with UNESCO, Volker Türk announced the launch of new guidance aimed at helping tech companies assess the risks their AI tools pose to journalists and critical voices. This initiative is part of a broader effort to protect media workers and ensure that the tools shaping modern journalism do not undermine press freedom.
“The need for a free, independent, and diverse media has never been more urgent,” Türk concluded. “In the face of AI’s growing influence, we must do everything in our power to protect journalism. A thriving media is essential to healing divisions and building stronger, more resilient societies.”
