iMEdD International Journalism Forum
It all started in 2019 with a question: How can we create a space where journalism is not just discussed but practiced, challenged, and reimagined? That question gave birth to the iMEdD International Journalism Forum, a gathering that has since evolved into a dynamic meeting point for journalists, media professionals, and academics from around the world.
Every September in Athens, the Forum brings together award-winning investigative reporters, media innovators, press freedom advocates, newsroom leaders, academics, photojournalists, documentarists, data journalists, fact-checkers, media policy analysts, nonprofit media founders, OSINT specialists, and storytellers—all united by a commitment to journalism that serves the public interest. Over the years, the Forum has delved into some of the most critical challenges shaping the media landscape, constantly evolving to address journalism’s most urgent questions:
- Transparency, trust, and accountability – the pillars of credible journalism in an era of eroding public confidence.
- Journalism in crisis – from covering the COVID-19 pandemic to reporting in conflict zones and humanitarian disasters.
- The fight against disinformation and threats to press freedom – navigating censorship, mis/disinformation, and the struggle for independent reporting.
- The future of storytelling – AI in journalism, new investigative methods, and the evolution of local reporting in a globalized world.
- Media sustainability – exploring funding models, newsroom innovation, and the viability of independent journalism.
- The climate crisis and environmental reporting – the role of journalism in exposing ecological threats and holding power to account.
- Technology, surveillance, and digital rights – balancing innovation with ethical concerns in a rapidly shifting digital landscape.
- What’s next for journalism? – anticipating the challenges and opportunities ahead in a time of unprecedented transformation.
A global network of journalists and organizations
From the very beginning, the Forum has been more than just a conference—it is a collaborative platform. Over the years, it has welcomed hundreds of speakers from across the globe, including investigative journalists uncovering corruption, photojournalists documenting history as it unfolds, and editors shaping the future of newsrooms. At the same time, it provides a space for other major events and conferences, fostering synergies and strengthening the collective effort to push journalism forward.
The Media Village grows larger, bringing together invited media organizations, press freedom groups, and journalism initiatives to share knowledge, explore partnerships, and support independent reporting.
An interactive journalism experience
The Forum is not just about panels and keynotes—it’s about engaging, hands-on journalism. Every year, participants step into workshops, interactive installations, experience thought-provoking photo exhibitions, and take part in immersive storytelling experiments (live journalism sessions).
A growing community of participants
What started as a gathering of a few hundred has now expanded into a thriving community of journalists, researchers, and media professionals from Greece and beyond. More young professionals are joining the Forum, eager to exchange ideas, build connections, and play a role in shaping the future of journalism.
Year after year, the iMEdD International Journalism Forum evolves, but its core mission remains unchanged: to empower journalism through collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Each edition builds upon the last, shaping a narrative that we create together.
