IOL Chief Executive Officer Viasen Soobramoney delivered a keynote address at the 2026 World Media Summit in Beijing, China, calling for a more inclusive global media landscape. He emphasized that Africa and the Global South must play a meaningful role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. Soobramoney's address highlighted the need for inclusive development of AI, guided by principles of equitable access, responsible governance, and preservation of journalistic integrity.
The seventh World Media Summit, hosted by Xinhua News Agency and the Beijing Municipal Government, brought together nearly 500 delegates from 112 countries and regions. The summit focused on the impact of artificial intelligence, transformation of newsrooms, and the future of international communications. Soobramoney's session, "AI+ and the Future of Global Communication Governance," challenged media leaders to consider who controls and benefits from the emerging digital information ecosystem.
Soobramoney noted that AI is transforming the media industry, offering opportunities to overcome language barriers and expand access to information. However, he cautioned that AI also presents significant challenges, including misinformation, deepfakes, and algorithmic bias. He emphasized the need for responsible progress, ensuring that AI serves humanity and is inclusive.
A central theme of Soobramoney's address was the need to strengthen Africa's position in the global technology and media ecosystem. He argued that African stories, languages, and cultures have been underrepresented in international information systems. AI presents an opportunity to change this imbalance, empowering journalists and enabling African newsrooms to produce multimedia content for international audiences.
Soobramoney highlighted the potential of AI to empower journalists in rural communities, improve investigative journalism, and analyze complex datasets. He stressed that these opportunities require sustained investment in skills development, infrastructure, partnerships, and responsible governance. The Global South must participate meaningfully in AI development, governance, and ownership.
Soobramoney emphasized the importance of ensuring AI systems are trained on diverse languages, cultures, and societies. This approach can help prevent the reproduction of existing inequalities in global information and knowledge systems. His remarks encouraged media leaders to consider the implications of AI on global communication governance.
The IOL CEO's address at the World Media Summit has sparked discussions on the role of Africa in shaping the future of AI-driven global media. His call for inclusive development and governance of AI has resonated with media leaders and experts. As AI continues to transform the media industry, Soobramoney's message serves as a reminder of the need for responsible progress and inclusive decision-making.
Key points
- IOL CEO Viasen Soobramoney calls for Africa to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of AI-driven global media.
- The 2026 World Media Summit in Beijing focuses on the impact of artificial intelligence on the media industry and global communication governance.
- Soobramoney emphasizes the need for inclusive development and governance of AI to ensure that progress serves humanity.
