The Value of Journalism – Why media matters to economics, national security and crises

Media freedom and journalism are under attack around the world. At the same time, international aid and media development budgets are drastically cut. What is at stake - for national security, the economy and society as a whole - when journalism declines and disappears? A new report presents fresh, global evidence on why these cuts and attacks matter. Join us for a candid conversation on the value of journalism.


SPEAKERS
Mel Bunce, City St George’s, University of London

Martin Hoppe, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

Anya Schiffrin, Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs

REFLECTION
Kate McGeown, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

MODERATION
Tom Law, Global Forum for Media and Development (GFMD)

DATE: June 23, 2026
TIME: 8:45 – 9:45 AM (Arrival 8:30)
VENUE: Deutsche Welle, Gremiensaal
Kurt-Schumacher Str. 3, Bonn (and online)

Streaming link available after registration.