Herb Caen Lecture 2026
March 31, 2026
RightsCon 2026
April 8, 2026
The World Press Freedom Day 2026 Global Conference will be held in Lusaka, Zambia, on 4–5 May 2026, bringing together press freedom advocates, journalists, digital rights activists, policymakers, civil society representatives, educators, and technologists for a major international gathering. The event is organized by UNESCO in partnership with the Government of Zambia and is scheduled back‑to‑back with RightsCon 2026, offering both in‑person and hybrid participation.
This conference aims to reaffirm the fundamental role of freedom of expression and free, independent media as essential foundations for shaping equitable, peaceful information societies. The agenda focuses on bridging journalism, technology (including AI), civic space, human rights, and gender‑responsive perspectives to foster coordinated action. Plenary sessions, workshops, and cross‑sector dialogues will explore practical ways to fortify information ecosystems, enhance press freedom protections globally, and promote collaboration between media professionals, digital rights advocates, regulators, and youth leaders.
Participants will exchange ideas and solutions for current challenges affecting journalism worldwide, including digital safety, legal pressures on journalists, evolving media landscapes, and threats to civic space. The hybrid format enables broader international engagement, supporting UNESCO’s broader mandate to uphold press freedom, defend media pluralism, and reinforce the importance of free expression as a human right.
The conference offers an opportunity for stakeholders to move beyond analysis toward concerted strategies that protect journalists, support independent reporting, and strengthen democratic dialogue in an increasingly interconnected and technology‑driven world.
Event: World Press Freedom Day 2026 Global Conference — “Shaping a Future at Peace”
Dates: 4–5 May 2026
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Hosts: UNESCO & Government of Zambia
Focus: Press freedom, journalism, technology, civic space, human rights
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