Indonesia has prioritized the defense of information integrity and journalist safety as artificial intelligence reshapes global media, according to a June 2026 statement from the Ministry of Communication and Media. Representing its interests at the 70th Meeting of the Bureau of UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC), Indonesia advocated for international digital governance to balance technological growth with the protection of reliable public information.
How is AI changing the global media landscape?
Artificial intelligence has fundamentally altered how audiences produce, consume, and trust information, according to Fifi Aleyda Yahya, Director General of Public Communication and Media. As AI tools lower the barrier to content creation, the risk of disinformation has increased, forcing international bodies to reconsider how media sustainability is maintained. During the June 18-19 UNESCO meeting, participants identified the responsible use of AI as a primary challenge for media organizations worldwide.
The IPDC approved funding for 48 international projects for the 2026-2027 period, specifically targeting gaps in media infrastructure and journalism training.
Why is journalist safety central to digital governance?
Journalist safety remains a critical pillar for future IPDC discussions because the future of media depends on preserving public trust, according to Satrya Wibawa, Indonesia’s Deputy Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. Wibawa noted that as Indonesia accelerates its own digital transformation, the country is pushing for global policies that prioritize media literacy. By keeping safety at the forefront, member states aim to ensure that journalists can work without the added pressures of algorithmic bias or AI-driven harassment.
What are the priorities for developing nations in media policy?
Developing countries are seeking to bridge the gap between rapid technological adaptation and the need for inclusive infrastructure, according to Wibawa. As vice chair of IPDC Group IV, Indonesia is leveraging its position to advocate for:
- Increased investment in journalist training programs.
- Expansion of AI tools to support, rather than replace, local media infrastructure.
- Improved cross-border coordination to counter digital disinformation.
To spot AI-generated misinformation, always verify the source of the information against established, reputable news outlets before sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of UNESCO’s IPDC?
The IPDC is the only multilateral forum in the UN system designed to mobilize the international community to discuss and promote media development in developing countries.
How does Indonesia plan to influence AI policies?
Through its vice-chair position in IPDC Group IV, Indonesia is working to shape global policies that ensure digital transformation is accountable and aligned with public interest, according to official government statements.
What is the main threat to information integrity?
The primary threats identified by forum participants include the rapid, unchecked growth of AI in content creation, which can undermine public trust and facilitate the spread of disinformation.
How is your local media organization adapting to the rise of AI? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more updates on digital media trends.
