This inaugural edition aims at bringing citizens, journalists, and media professionals closer to each other, encouraging their dialogue, and celebrating the pivotal roles journalism and informed public play in societies while fostering critical thinking around disinformation.
From tackling journalism's evolution in a rapidly shifting digital landscape to equipping citizens with the tools to navigate these changes, Voices will steer the conversation toward a more informed future through curated sessions, interactive workshops, exhibitions, and networking opportunities.
Over two days, the festival will explore crucial themes shaping our relationship with information and media today. These themes include artificial intelligence and journalism, disinformation, the safety of journalists, the challenges within media economic models, media literacy, elections' integrity, EU legislation on media, digital parenting, and digital well-being, among others.
Pre-registration is now open. This pre-booking process involves completing a simple form that guarantees a spot for the fair's main sessions and interactive activities. To be among the first to receive updates when registrations for workshops, training sessions, and interactive activities open, subscribe to the Voices newsletter.
Furthermore, Voices is awarding ten grants of 1,000 euros each to outstanding young journalists and teachers to participate in the first edition of the festival. The call with all information about the selection criteria will open on 20 December 2023.
With the grants award, Voices aims to champion professionals who can showcase innovation in their work and help them connect with journalistic and media literacy communities.
After Florence, this EU-funded initiative will embark on a journey across different European cities to enhance media freedom and media literacy as essential elements for the functioning of our democratic societies. The first happening will be followed by a second edition in Zagreb, Croatia, in February 2025.