By Nyang’au Araka
As the world prepares to mark World Press Freedom Day on May 3, attention is turning to a major global gathering set to shape the future of journalism and freedom of expression.
The World Press Freedom Day 2026 Global Conference will take place from May 4–5 in Lusaka, bringing together journalists, policymakers, digital rights activists, and civil society actors under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace.”
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The event is co-hosted by UNESCO and the Government of Zambia, and will be held back-to-back with RightsCon 2026.
World Press Freedom Day itself serves as a moment of reflection and advocacy.
It reminds governments to uphold their commitment to press freedom, while offering media professionals an opportunity to examine ethical standards and challenges facing the industry.
It is also a day to support journalists under threat and to honor those who have lost their lives in pursuit of truth.
According to UNESCO, the upcoming conference comes at a time of mounting global concern.
“Freedom of expression around the world has declined by 10 percent since 2012, a regression comparable to some of the most unstable periods of the 20th century,” notes the concept paper for the event .
This decline has been driven by factors including rising conflicts, increased control over media, and the growing influence of digital platforms and artificial intelligence.
The conference aims to confront these challenges head-on.
It will explore how independent journalism can foster peace, strengthen democratic governance, and support economic development.
Organizers emphasize that “press freedom and independent journalism are not sectoral issues… they are key to peace, resilience and democratic governance” .
Three key pillars will guide discussions: the link between press freedom and security, the impact of digital transformation and AI on information integrity, and the sustainability and inclusivity of media ecosystems.
Participants are expected to propose practical solutions, including policy recommendations and collaborative initiatives that extend beyond the conference.
Importantly, the choice of Lusaka highlights Africa’s growing role in shaping global media discourse.
The gathering is expected to culminate in the “Lusaka Call to Action on the Future of Journalism,” reinforcing global commitments to protect freedom of expression as a public good.
