Core Argument - The speech advocates for the necessity of quality and responsible (QR) journalism and its sustainability [1] - QR journalism is defined as a profession based on core values, ethics, fact-checking, and working for the public interest, not for governments, corporations, or ownerships [8][9] - The speaker emphasizes the importance of separating fact from opinion, providing evidence-based information, and analyzing situations in depth [8] Challenges and Threats - Journalism faces challenges related to social issues, economic issues, ideological influences, and education, including "ghosts from our past" [4] - Global risks include the rise of far-right extremism, the economic crisis after the pandemic, and disinformation [5] - Disinformation is identified as a huge global risk and a disruptive phenomenon, ranked as a top global risk in the 2024 Global Risk Report [5][14] - Authoritarian leaders suppress independent journalism and critical voices [13] Solutions and Recommendations - Media education is crucial for training critical thinking and responsible digital behavior, including checking and cross-checking information [15] - Individuals should support local newsrooms and freelance journalists who provide quality content by following them, reading their materials, criticizing their work, and donating if possible [16][17] - Awareness of AI and its potential to provide inaccurate information is important; information, especially academic titles, should be checked [17][18] - QR journalism is an essential benchmark for democracy and a valuable marker in a digital media ecosystem invaded by disinformation [12][13] Contextual Background - The speaker's personal experience growing up in a former communist country (Romania) highlights the importance of freedom of speech and independent journalism [2] - Romanian media is part of the European paradigm but faces specific challenges [3]