Amman, November 2 (Petra) -- Honourary President of the Arab Women Media Centre Princess Basma bint Talal, Sunday, inaugurated the Centre's 20th annual conference entitled "Arab Women Journalists in the Digital Age: Between Freedom of Speech and Algorithms of Repression." More than 100 journalists from across the Arab world are taking part in the two-day conference to share experiences and address the challenges facing women journalists in the era of digital transformation.

In her opening remarks, Princess Basma said that while digital transformation has expanded opportunities for knowledge and creativity, it has posed serious challenges to freedom of expression and access to truth.

She called for upholding media ethics, responsibility in reporting and protection against misinformation and digital exclusion.

Princess Basma warned that the "war on truth" has taken on new digital forms that threaten free voices, calling on Arab women journalists to combine professionalism with courage in confronting these challenges.

Minister of Government Communications Mohammad Momani affirmed that His Majesty King Abdullah II views free and responsible media as vital to reform and democracy.

Momani said digital transformation brings both benefits and ethical challenges, requiring a balance that keeps human values at the centre. He praised Arab women journalists for their leadership and adaptability, noting that digital skills are now essential to their professional advancement.

Mahasen Imam, head of the Arab Women Media Centre, presented the Centre’s two-decade role in empowering women journalists, promoting integrity and enriching expertise.

She said the conference continues to provide a platform for dialogue and change under the slogan "Empowering Voices and Enriching Narratives." Speakers from international organisations emphasised the global importance of women's leadership in the digital era.

Najia Hashemi of the UNDP warned that artificial intelligence can distort information and silence voices, stressing that women journalists play a key role in defending freedom of expression and inclusivity.

EU advisor Jerome Cassier and German Ambassador Bertram von Moltke reiterated their countries' support for empowering women and combating online violence and misinformation.

The conference will address topics including freedom of expression in the digital age, artificial intelligence and the future of media, women journalists’ protection and empowerment, digital safety and women’s leadership in online spaces.

//Petra// AK