The annual conference of the Alliance of Independent Press Councils of Europe (AIPCE) took place in Oslo from 7 to 10 October 2026, bringing together 59 members and observers representing media self-regulatory bodies from Europe, the United Kingdom, Southwest Asia, and Canada.
Joan Barata participated in the conference, where he presented the latest developments in the work of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media on Safeguarding Public Interest Information in an Evolving Media Environment.
The conference addressed key challenges facing media self-regulation, including the financial sustainability of press councils, the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in journalism, and the role of self-regulatory bodies in the context of emerging European regulations on media, digital platforms, and AI.
Particular attention was given to how press councils and self-regulatory mechanisms can maintain their relevance and effectiveness amid evolving legislative and technological frameworks. Discussions provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences, examine shared challenges, and explore ways to uphold journalistic ethics and freedom of the press.
The conference was hosted at Pressens Hus in Oslo, with the Norwegian Press Association (Norsk Presseforbund) serving as the host organisation. The association works to promote ethical standards, professional integrity, freedom of expression, and freedom of the press.