Realitatea reporter Traian Stoianov took part in the 2026 Deutsche Welle Global Media Forum 2026, held in Bonn. This year’s edition, themed “Journalism out loud,” focused on the role of the media at a time marked by information warfare, polarization, growing pressure on journalists and the increasing need for public trust in verified information.
“For me, participating in the Deutsche Welle Global Media Forum was more than a professional experience. It was an opportunity to see how issues we face almost every day in the Republic of Moldova—disinformation, fragile public trust and the enormous responsibility of journalists—are being discussed at the international level,” said Traian Stoianov.
The 2026 edition brought together more than 1,400 participants from over 100 countries and featured more than 160 speakers in plenary sessions, thematic discussions and networking events.
The forum covered topics including press freedom, journalists’ safety, editorial independence, the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism and ways newsrooms can respond more effectively to disinformation.
“The forum’s theme, Journalism out loud, perfectly reflects the times we live in. Journalism can no longer remain quiet when the truth is drowned out by noise, when lies spread rapidly and fear is used as a political tool. The media must explain, verify and remain close to the people,” the Realitatea reporter added.
One of the most emotional moments of the event was the ceremony dedicated to freedom of expression, during which Deutsche Welle honored Jimmy Lai, founder of the Apple Daily. The award was accepted by his daughter, Claire Lai.
Participation in the Deutsche Welle Global Media Forum 2026 was supported by the Embassy of Germany in Chisinau. The forum took place in Bonn on 23–24 June. Organizers said the conference platform will remain available until the end of July, allowing participants to revisit recordings, photographs and key moments from the event.