IFJ calls for ethical AI standards to protect journalism and press freedom

Title: IFJ Advocates for Ethical AI Standards in Journalism on World Press Freedom Day 2025

Introduction:

On World Press Freedom Day 2025, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has called for the prioritisation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in discussions between journalists’ unions and media organisations 1, 2. This appeal aligns with UNESCO’s theme for the year, ‘The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom’, urging collective action to ensure AI supports ethical news creation, protects press freedom, and sustains employment 1, 2.

Key Themes:

1. Human Oversight in AI-Generated Content:

The IFJ emphasises that AI cannot replace human journalists, and its output should not be considered ‘journalism’ unless it undergoes appropriate human oversight and verification 1. This stance underscores the necessity of human intervention to maintain journalistic integrity 1.

1. Combating AI-Driven Misinformation:

The rise of AI-fuelled online disinformation, including deepfakes, poses significant challenges to press freedom 1. The IFJ highlights the critical role of journalists in verifying information to counteract these threats, as deepfakes are seen as direct attacks on democracy and the public’s right to reliable information 1.

1. Ethical Use of AI in Newsrooms:

The IFJ calls for media organisations and trade unions to address AI’s role in newsrooms through social dialogue 1. While AI can enhance efficiency by automating routine tasks and assisting with data analysis, there is concern that it could replace editorial decisions currently made by professional staff 1. Ensuring transparency and ethical use of AI is paramount 1.

1. Fair Compensation for Journalistic Content Used by AI:

The IFJ expresses concern over the use of journalistic works to train AI systems without proper compensation 1. Licensing agreements between news organisations and AI companies should ensure fair remuneration for journalists and allow them to opt out if they do not wish their work to be used in this manner 1.

1. AI Literacy and Training for Journalists:

The IFJ advocates for proper AI literacy training for journalists, including freelancers, to equip them with the skills necessary to navigate the evolving media landscape 1. This training is essential to ensure journalists can effectively collaborate with AI technologies while upholding ethical standards 1.

Strategic Context:

The integration of AI into journalism presents both opportunities and challenges 2, 3. While AI can streamline processes and enhance data analysis, it also raises concerns about misinformation, job displacement, and ethical standards 2, 3. The IFJ’s call to action is timely, coinciding with UNESCO’s focus on AI’s impact on press freedom, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that leverages AI’s benefits while safeguarding journalistic integrity 2, 3.

Customer Impact:

For media organisations, adopting ethical AI practices can lead to improved efficiency and content quality 1, 2. However, it is crucial to address the potential risks, such as the spread of misinformation and the erosion of public trust 1, 2. For journalists, embracing AI with proper training can enhance their work, but they must remain vigilant to ensure that AI does not compromise ethical standards or their professional autonomy 1, 2.

Conclusion:

The IFJ’s advocacy for ethical AI standards in journalism underscores the importance of human oversight, transparency, and fair compensation in the age of AI 1, 2. As AI continues to reshape the media landscape, it is imperative for all stakeholders to collaborate in developing guidelines that prioritise the rights and well-being of journalists, ensuring that technology serves to enhance, rather than undermine, the core values of press freedom 1, 2.

Footnotes:

1. International Federation of Journalists – https://www.ifj.org/en/press-releases/ifj-calls-for-ai-ethical-standards-in-journalism-on-world-press-freedom-day-2025.html – The IFJ calls for AI to be at the top of the agenda in the social dialogue between journalists’ unions and media, urging collective action to ensure AI serves the ethical creation of news, protects press freedom, and sustains jobs.

2. UNESCO – https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/world-press-freedom-day-2025-signature-event-reporting-brave-new-world-impact-artificial – UNESCO’s event focuses on the profound influence of AI on journalism and media, highlighting both the opportunities and risks associated with AI in the media industry.

3. International Consortium of Investigative Journalists – https://www.icij.org/inside-icij/2023/08/icij-joins-global-initiative-to-set-ai-guidelines-for-journalists/ – The ICIJ joins an international committee to develop guidelines around the use of artificial intelligence in media, aiming to establish principles, rights, and obligations regarding AI-based systems.

4. World Press Freedom Day: IFJ calls for global solutions to combat journalists surveillance – https://www.ifj.org/media-centre/news/detail/category/press-releases/article/world-press-freedom-day-ifj-calls-for-global-solutions-to-combat-journalists-surveillance – The IFJ urges governments and international bodies to develop strict regulations banning surveillance of journalists and recognising the inviolability of journalists’ communications.

5. AI AND THE FUTURE OF JOURNALISM: HUMAN RIGHTS REPORTING – https://jwf.org/ai-and-the-future-of-journalism-human-rights-reporting/jwf-2024-events/ – The Journalists and Writers Foundation organises a virtual panel discussing the implications of artificial intelligence for the right to access information and the future of journalism.

Reference Map:

• Introduction: 1, 2
• Key Themes:
• Human Oversight in AI-Generated Content: 1
• Combating AI-Driven Misinformation: 1
• Ethical Use of AI in Newsrooms: 1
• Fair Compensation for Journalistic Content Used by AI: 1
• AI Literacy and Training for Journalists: 1
• Strategic Context: 2, 3
• Customer Impact: 1, 2
• Conclusion: 1, 2