In line with its mandate to “promote the free flow of information by word and image”, UNESCO plays a leading role within the UN system in fostering freedom of expression, media development, and access to information and knowledge.

In 2011, UNESCO’s 36th General Conference issued a resolution requesting the Organization to monitor the status of press freedom and safety of journalists worldwide, and to report on the developments in these fields.

In meeting this request, since 2014, UNESCO has produced the flagship series on World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development (World Trends Report).

 It provides a macro-level perspective that informs UNESCO Member States, international organizations, civil society groups, academia, and individuals about key developments and challenges in freedom of expression and media ;Issue briefs and other publications in the World Trends Report series offer further insights into emerging and evolving challenges in this ; For UNESCO and partners, the World Trends Report also serves as a basis for programme design and enhanced capacity in data collection and analysis, the 2025 World Trends Report will provide deeper empirical insights into the global trends it covers from the years 2021 to consultation will be open to all participants of the IDEI (subject to room capacity).

It will bring together a diverse group of experts in freedom of expression and media development, including international specialists, journalists, media organizations, civil society representatives, and consultation will be a one-hour and a half session held in English that will take place at the African Union Headquarters, on 7 November 2024, from pm to pm (Room TBD), in the framework of the 10th International Day to End Impunity of Crimes against Journalists (IDEI).

The consultation will be a mixed form of roundtables and plenaries facilitated by UNESCO.

 During roundtable conversations, participants will be divided into 3 groups of approximately 10 people, including 1 moderator and 1 rapporteur in each ;Module 1: Identification of Additional ComponentsParticipants will collaboratively identify and prioritize additional components and issues that need to be addressed in the World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development Report 2025, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of emerging issues in media freedom that may affect future policy recommendations.

Their insights will be crucial in aligning the Report’s findings with the realities faced by journalists and media organizations 2: Identifying Trends and Case Studies in Media Freedom by RegionBy examining regional trends and specific case studies, participants will gain insights into the diverse challenges and strategies employed across different contexts to promote media freedom.

This will facilitate a better understanding of how localized efforts can inform global advocacy and policy 3: Freedom of Expression: A Catalyst for Peace and StabilityParticipants will examine the integral role of freedom of expression as a driver for peace and stability.

Through discussions, they will explore the connection between safeguarding journalists, promoting press freedom, and fostering peaceful societies.