The M20 Summit, an independent event occurring alongside the G20 programme in South Africa, aims to address critical issues related to media, journalism, and information integrity. Commencing on October 16, 2023, the summit has already garnered substantial interest, with participation exceeding expectations. Izak Minnaar, the convenor of the summit and a representative of the South African National Editors Forum (Sanef), expressed optimism, stating, “Even if the G20 continues to ignore media, we already consider the international interest in convincing the G20 to consider the role of media a success.”
Organised by Sanef and Media Monitoring Africa, the M20 initiative was born from a recognition of the absence of media representation in G20 discussions. Minnaar noted the surprising lack of references to media roles within G20 economies, particularly in relation to the future of journalism and information integrity. He highlighted that the agenda for the South African G20 did not encompass any mention of media integrity, despite its importance in global discourse.
This year’s summit builds on previous efforts, including last year’s M20 conference, hosted by Siddharth Varadarajan, co-founder of The Wire in India. Minnaar pointed out that Brazil’s G20 presidency last year did prioritise information integrity, resulting in significant media advocacy that led to the establishment of the Global Fund for Climate Change Reporting. What began as an informal engagement group has evolved into a global advisory panel of media leaders from over 20 organisations worldwide.
The M20 initiative has produced a series of policy briefs addressing various pressing issues. These include topics such as information integrity, the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism, children’s rights in the digital age, and the overall viability of media. Each policy brief aims to shape a summit declaration that urges the G20 to incorporate media and journalism considerations into their statements and activities.
Looking to the future, while the immediate impact of the M20 Summit remains uncertain, its continuation is assured. Discussions regarding future plans will take place during the summit’s concluding sessions, with considerations already underway to support the M20 agenda during the upcoming US Presidency.
Minnaar has called for collaboration, inviting any organisation with an interest in influencing the G20 agenda to engage with the M20 initiative. “We’re asking any organisation, anywhere, who has an interest in influencing the G20 agenda, to collaborate in whatever way,” he said, welcoming contributions such as publishing M20 materials.
The M20 Policy Briefs include critical insights on various subjects:
– **Information Integrity**: A vital public good currently at risk.
– **AI and Intellectual Property**: Addressing its impact on journalists’ rights.
– **Climate Change Reporting**: Emphasising the need for information integrity as a core pillar in G20 discussions.
– **Children’s Rights**: Advocating for their protection in the digital landscape.
– **Media Viability**: Highlighting the urgent need for action to support democratic processes.
– **Journalist Safety**: Addressing the escalating threats to journalists as a significant concern for democracy.
– **Media Funding Challenges**: Proposing policy solutions to combat funding issues faced by media outlets.
As the M20 Summit unfolds, its advocates remain hopeful that their efforts will compel the G20 to recognise the indispensable role of media in fostering informed societies and addressing global challenges.
