Lech Wałęsa, former president of Poland and Nobel Laureate, will be among 100 speakers to address media leaders at the World News Media Congress (WNMC25) in Kraków, Poland, from 4 to 6 May.
The three-day World News Media Congress organized by the World Association of News Publishers (Wan-Ifra) in partnership with Agora SA, publisher of Gazeta Wyborcza, will bring together participants from over 60 countries to examine how news organizations are innovating and adapting in the face of relentless technological changes, political pressures, and financial challenges, while upholding independent journalism.
Wałęsa, as the leader of the pro-democracy Solidarity movement, played a key role in toppling communism in Poland in 1989, helping to pave the way for the end of the Cold War. Still an active voice in democracy and geopolitics, he will share his insights in an on-stage interview in the opening ceremony of the congress.
Evolving attitudes to journalism
“We face a crucial challenge: understanding the role of media companies in a changing world. Shifting views on journalism make our work more important than ever. We must protect journalism and democracy,” writes Ladina Heimgartner, Wan-Ifra president, in her invitation to media leaders.
With declining trust in journalism and increasing threats to press freedom, WNMC25 will focus on restoring credibility, protecting independent reporting, and ensuring financial sustainability, as the program features a plethora of best-practice cases.
Bartosz Hojka, CEO of Agora, highlighted the significance of Poland hosting this year’s congress, “I am extremely pleased that Wan-Ifra distinguishes Poland among its global network of members and partners and has given Agora the privilege to host the World News Media Congress. This recognizes the stand taken by Poland’s independent press in confronting populism and authoritarian regimes.”
