Exploring the future of media on World Press Freedom Day

How is the media evolving in Turkey and around the world? Has public trust in journalism truly diminished? What editorial strategies should reputable media outlets adopt to effectively engage their audiences and build lasting connections?

These timely and vital questions were the focus of a panel organized by P24 to mark World Press Freedom Day. Hosted by the Swedish Consulate in Istanbul on April 30, 2025, the event featured Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suncem Koçer of Koç University’s Department of Media and Visual Arts and founder of Infodemilab; İlksen Mavituna, Managing Editor at Açık Radyo; and Dr. Sarphan Uzunoğlu, a faculty member at the Department of New Media and Communication at İzmir University of Economics and founder of NewsLab Turkey. The discussion was moderated by journalist and P24 board member Ayla Jean Yackley.

Suncem Koçer drew on Infodemilab’s findings to reflect on media trust in Turkey, emphasizing that confidence in journalists remains significant. Sarphan Uzunoğlu noted that many news outlets are content with merely “updating” audiences, whereas younger generations seek more personal, in-depth content across a variety of platforms. İlksen Mavituna spoke about how Açık Radyo’s community remained resilient following the revocation of its terrestrial license, while also highlighting the sustained effort required to maintain strong listener engagement.

The panel brought together an audience from various sectors, including media, civil society, academia, and the diplomatic community. Swedish Consul General Johanna Strömquist welcomed attendees with brief opening remarks. P24 expresses its sincere gratitude to the Swedish Consulate for its continued support in hosting World Press Freedom Day events for over a decade.