19-04-2025
Oman at International Journalism Festival in Italy
Perugia, Italy: The Sultanate of Oman marked its presence at this globally renowned media gathering, with Oman Observer attending the event that unfolded over five days in the Italian city of Perugia from April 9 to 13.
Held in the medieval heart of Umbria, the festival is widely considered one of the most significant gatherings of journalists, media professionals, and digital innovators from around the world. This year's edition featured an expansive programme of workshops and discussions, many of which were delivered by distinguished journalists, editors, AI engineers and media strategists who explored the latest developments shaping the future of journalism.
Throughout the festival, the sessions — delivered in both English and Italian — focused on a wide array of topics ranging from digital media innovation and ethical challenges in reporting, to the impact of artificial intelligence on newsrooms and the future of investigative journalism. One of the most notable aspects of the festival is its open-access philosophy: all sessions and workshops were offered free of charge, creating a unique space for knowledge-sharing without barriers.
Among the many sessions attended during the festival, one particularly compelling workshop was titled 'Investigating and Reporting on AI 'Nudifying' Sites and Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery.' The session addressed the alarming rise of technology-facilitated abuse and the journalistic responsibility to uncover and report on these developments.
Oman at International Journalism Festival in Italy
Experts from 404 Media and Bellingcat, along with a journalist from The Guardian, shared insights into how AI is being used to manipulate images without consent and how the media can respond through ethical reporting and raising public awareness.
Equally impactful was the session 'Behind the Scenes: How AI is Reshaping Local News,' where media leaders and technologists from organisations such as Microsoft, Nota and the Philadelphia Inquirer delved into the transformation of local journalism through automation and machine learning. The discussion provided a glimpse into how AI tools are being integrated into news production and distribution, reshaping newsroom roles and workflows in the process.
Environmental journalism was another strong focus this year. One standout session, 'Climate Change and the Amazon: The Run-up to COP 30 Belém — and Beyond — While Amplifying Local Voices,' explored the intersection of climate coverage and community storytelling. Daniel Nardin of Amazonia Vox emphasised the importance of including indigenous and local perspectives in reporting on deforestation and global climate negotiations.
Oman Observer also joined a powerful conversation on rebuilding journalistic credibility in an age of misinformation during 'Rebuilding Trust in the News Ecosystem.' This session brought together leaders from the Associated Press, The Marshall Project and regional newsrooms in the US to examine how transparency, accountability and community engagement can repair fractured trust between the public and the press.
Security and press freedom were also central themes. At 'Journalists Under Fire,' attendees heard firsthand accounts from reporters and editors working in high-risk regions, highlighting the daily dangers faced by journalists and the increasing importance of institutional support and international solidarity. Panelists from Latin America, Africa and the US underscored the urgency of protecting journalism in authoritarian environments.
In another illuminating session, 'Going Independent: How Journalists Are Building Audiences and Growing Businesses Across the World,' founders of media startups shared their strategies for building sustainable, audience-first news operations. This included leveraging newsletters, community engagement and digital monetisation tools to thrive independently without relying on legacy institutions.
One of the festival's most inspiring sessions was 'How to Find and Execute the Scoops That Can Rock the World.' Moderated by senior investigative editors from ProPublica, ICIJ, the BBC and other international watchdogs, this session unpacked the anatomy of major global exposés — from sourcing and verification to collaboration across borders. It provided practical takeaways on how newsrooms can continue to pursue high-impact journalism in an era of shrinking resources and legal threats.
Another climate-focused session, 'Leading by Example: Transforming Newsroom Leadership for Climate Crisis Reporting,' emphasised the need for newsroom culture shifts in how environmental news is approached and prioritised. Featuring speakers from Fathm, AFP and Bellwethers Group, the panel advocated for structural changes in editorial planning and leadership support to better serve the public on urgent climate issues.
Attending the festival offered a valuable opportunity to observe how journalism is adapting across borders and to engage with emerging perspectives in both traditional reporting and digital storytelling. The experience underscored the importance of continuous learning in journalism, especially in a time where information ecosystems are being reshaped by new technologies and shifting audience behaviours.
Situated approximately 170 kilometres from Rome, Perugia's old town provided a striking backdrop for the event. Its cobbled streets, historic cathedrals and vibrant piazzas created an environment conducive to reflection and dialogue. The festival's venues — scattered across the city's historic buildings — added a layer of cultural richness to the experience, merging the past and future of journalism in one setting.
By attending the International Journalism Festival, Oman Observer was able to gain critical insights into newsroom transformation, the role of digital tools in investigative reporting and the evolving standards of global media ethics. The participation also offered a chance to interact with fellow journalists from different parts of the world, fostering a spirit of exchange and dialogue that is essential in today's interconnected media environment.
The experience has contributed meaningfully to the professional development of the participating staff member, offering exposure to international best practices that can be applied in both newsroom management and editorial output. It also aligns with broader national efforts to enhance skills, embrace digital evolution and engage with global platforms in ways that enrich local media practice.
