When: Saturday, 18 April, 17:00–17:50 CET
Where: Sala delle Colonne, Palazzo Graziani
Watch the live-streamed session here
GFMD’s Executive Director Mira Milosevic will speak at this session, which takes an honest look at the shifting global funding landscape for journalism. The collapse of USAID’s funding for journalism wasn’t the end — it was the catalyst. Philanthropy is being reimagined, with pooled funds offering promising alternatives. Journalists and intermediaries are shifting narratives, forging cross-sector alliances, and experimenting with new storytelling and revenue models. The conversation has moved beyond “saving journalism” toward building resilient information ecosystems. But will this transformation happen quickly enough — and what disruptions will it trigger?
Moderated by Lars Boering, Director of the EJC, this fishbowl-style session will honestly examine what has been lost, while showcasing practical, replicable strategies from those adapting to this new reality. It will explore who is still funding journalism and why others have stepped back, the role of intermediaries, and how pooled funds, public–private models, and new coalitions are reshaping the sector. Other speakers include Sharon Moshavi, President of the International Center for Journalists, and Paul Radu, Co-founder of the OCCRP.
When: Thursday, April 16, 18:30-20:30 CET
Where: Hotel Brufani.
Register here to join the event in person
GFMD Chair and Director General of ARIJ Rawan Damen will be speaking at the launch of the DW Akademie report State of Media Development 2026. Organised by DW Freedom, DW Akademie’s Media Development Think Tank, this event brings together leading voices in the field to discuss fresh data on recent developments in the sector, set against a backdrop of funding crises, democratic backsliding, and technological disruption. The launch will take place in an aperitivo format, offering an opportunity to reflect, exchange ideas, and celebrate the new report alongside peers. Other speakers include Martin Scott, Professor in Media & Development at the University of East Anglia.
Connect with us in Perugia!
Mira Milosevic, Tom Law, and Michael G. Oghia will be present at the festival. Let us know if you’d like to meet up while you’re there. Whether it’s for sharing ideas, forming partnerships, or simply engaging in meaningful conversations, we look forward to seeing you in Perugia!