African journalists adopt a continental action plan on responsible AI, decent work and media freedom

African journalists have reached a consensus on a plan to tackle responsible artificial intelligence (AI), decent working conditions, and media freedom across the continent. This agreement was finalized after a two-day meeting in Addis Ababa, organized by the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ).

The conference, titled "Advancing Responsible Artificial Intelligence and Decent Work for Quality Journalism in Africa," convened journalists with representatives from the African Union Commission, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization, and the European Union. The group focused on issues like countering disinformation, enhancing journalists' working conditions, and defending media freedom.

Key topics discussed included AI's impact on journalism, positive aspects such as facilitating research, translation, and verification, as well as potential risks like fabricated content, impersonation of trusted sources, and rapid spread of disinformation. The group also addressed journalists' poor working conditions, including low or delayed pay, insecure employment, lack of contracts and social protection, and pressure on editorial independence.

AI-driven automation and cost-cutting measures were examined for their potential to reduce staffing in newsrooms, along with digital security, protection, and the need to end impunity for crimes against journalists. Discussions also covered online harassment and digital violence against women journalists, as well as regional experiences and priorities for collective action.

The action plan, funded by the International Labour Organization, the European Union, and UNESCO through its Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists, will guide FAJ and its affiliated organizations in advocating for decent work, quality journalism, and responsible AI across Africa. FAJ will implement these priorities through its member organisations, networks, and continued engagement with various stakeholders, including the African Union, regional economic communities, UN agencies, organised labour, human rights organisations, and other like-minded entities.