DW Akademie in the Middle East and North Africa

JOURNALISM RISE is DW Akademie’s regional strategy for countries in the Middle East and North Africa. It focuses on the future of journalism at a time of deep geopolitical tensions and changing information ecosystems. The regional strategy looks at journalism’s self-image, its work approach and relationship with its audience. 

Journalists worldwide face similar challenges: How can they win back the trust of media users, especially younger ones? How can they protect and assert themselves in an environment of shrinking spaces and state infringements? How can they respond to rampant disinformation, and how can artificial intelligence strengthen their profession?

Journalism crisis in the region worsens

All too easily, media have become a playball for political actors, with propaganda drowning out facts or local reporters personally affected by events or becoming targets of violent acts.

In response, DW Akademie supports journalists in the region in finding answers to pressing questions facing their trade. Media professionals, educational institutions, entrepreneurs, IT experts and media users are developing solutions for a sustainable journalism that can contend with a critical audience. 

Our network of partners includes community media in Morocco, media start-ups in Tunisia, Libyan fact-checkers, educational institutions in Jordan and the Palestinian territories, and local media in Lebanon. Through consulting, knowledge transfer and international dialogue, partners in their own countries support the development of transparent and fair information and media systems. 

The current crisis could in fact be an opportunity for journalism - if it can redefine its role, its responsibility and work approach, and thus win over its audience.