The Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan, in partnership with Maqsut Narikbayev University and with cooperation from EU Member States France, Germany, and Lithuania, successfully held the third annual Media Forum titled “The Digital Frontline: Online Presence in Times of AI and Information Manipulation.” The one-day regional event brought together over 100 participants, including journalists, fact-checkers, civil society representatives, media organizations, and journalism students from across Central Asia. EU Ambassador to Kazakhstan, H.E. Aleska Simkić, highlighted the Forum as a vital space for EU–Kazakhstan cooperation, now growing into a regional platform for discussing digital transformation, responsible AI, and combating disinformation, reflecting a shared commitment to media freedom, innovation, and a resilient information environment.
H.E. Eduards Stiprais, EU Special Representative for Central Asia, emphasized the media’s critical role in shaping informed societies and strengthening democracy. He noted that news outlets provide diverse perspectives, foster dialogue, and serve as essential channels for accurate and timely information during crises. The Forum aimed to strengthen cross-border cooperation among journalists, fact-checkers, and civil society, while empowering media professionals through practical skill development, experience sharing, and building a stronger collective voice to ensure informed and peaceful communities.
The Forum featured an introductory session and a keynote on digital security by Jean-Marc Bourguignon from France, followed by four practical workshops addressing key challenges in the digital information space. Sessions included deepfakes and their political and journalistic impact led by Maria Pawelec from Germany, AI-driven disinformation presented by Jakub Śliż from Poland, journalistic resilience and bias with Aleksandra Wrona from Poland, and digital security conducted by Artyom Tarasov from Kyrgyzstan. These workshops provided participants with tools and strategies to detect AI-generated manipulation, enhance newsroom practices, measure impact, and strengthen cybersecurity skills tailored for media professionals.
The Forum also featured greetings from the President of the European Council, Mr. Antonio Costa, who was in Astana for high-level meetings. His presence underscored the EU’s ongoing commitment to deepening cooperation with Kazakhstan and Central Asian partners in digital governance, media freedom, and information integrity.
Overall, the third regional Media Forum provided a valuable platform for discussion, learning, and cooperation among media professionals and experts, exploring the effects of AI, addressing information manipulation, and enhancing the online presence and resilience of journalists across Central Asia.
