Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire - The President of Côte d'Ivoire's National Press Authority (ANP), Bakary Sanogo, has emphasized the need for journalists to strengthen their commitment to ethics and responsibility in the face of rapid technological changes. Speaking at the Colloque Médias 2026 conference in Abidjan on September 11, 2026, Sanogo highlighted the importance of upholding the profession's standards. He noted that the collection, processing, and dissemination of information remain a specialized profession that requires adherence to specific guidelines.
Sanogo's remarks were made during a panel discussion on the theme "Media as Opinion Makers." He stressed that the advent of artificial intelligence and changes in technology can pose significant challenges to the integrity of information. The ANP president called on media professionals to be vigilant in distinguishing between factual information and misinformation or manipulation. He emphasized that journalists must respect the laws and regulations governing their work, as well as the codes of ethics and deontology that guide their profession.
According to Sanogo, the role of media as "opinion makers" carries a heavy social responsibility rather than a privilege. He drew a distinction between influence and manipulation in the treatment of information. Sanogo explained that influence is a natural aspect of editorial choices, whereas manipulation occurs when information is intentionally altered, not verified, or presented in a way that deprives citizens of forming their own judgments. This distinction is crucial in maintaining the credibility and trustworthiness of media outlets.
The panel discussion also focused on the vulnerability of the public to disinformation and manipulated content. Panellists, including Alassane Drabo, M'ma Camara, and Daouda Traoré, called for an increase in critical thinking among media consumers. Sanogo announced that the ANP plans to intensify its media education programs, particularly targeting young people. This initiative aims to equip consumers with the skills to critically evaluate the information they consume.
The Colloque Médias 2026 conference, organized by the German Konrad-Adenauer Foundation, brought together various stakeholders in the media industry to discuss pressing issues. Sanogo's participation in the panel discussion underscored the ANP's commitment to promoting responsible journalism in Côte d'Ivoire. The conference provided a platform for media professionals to engage in constructive dialogue on the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements.
The ANP president's emphasis on journalistic ethics and responsibility resonated with the audience, comprising media practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders. His call to action highlights the need for a concerted effort to maintain the integrity of information in the face of technological disruptions. By upholding the highest standards of journalism, media professionals can contribute to a more informed and critically thinking public.
The discussions at the Colloque Médias 2026 conference will likely have a lasting impact on the media landscape in Côte d'Ivoire. As the media continues to evolve, the importance of ethics and responsibility in journalism will remain a pressing concern. The ANP's initiatives, including the intensification of media education programs, are expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of journalism in the country.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire's ANP president, Bakary Sanogo, calls for strengthened journalistic ethics and responsibility amid technological changes.
