King Felipe VI champions journalism's necessity for democracy, especially with AI's rise

King Felipe VI of Spain lauded the essential contribution of journalism to democracy, asserting its importance is amplified by the swift evolution of artificial intelligence and algorithms. Speaking at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Spanish digital newspaper El Confidencial, the monarch underscored the enduring value of the written word. He stated that even amidst algorithmic advancements, journalism necessitates rigor, meticulousness, and reflection, embodying a dedication akin to craftsmanship.

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Never will the appreciation for the importance and relevance of newspapers for democracy be enough.

Felipe VI, accompanied by Queen Letizia, described the profession of informing as profoundly ethical and intrinsically linked to the responsible pursuit of the common good. He contrasted true journalism with disinformation, polarization, and animosity, emphasizing that when reporting deviates from these principles, it forfeits its dignity and ceases to be genuine journalism.

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the written word, which obliges, even in times of algorithms, to rigor, to meticulousness, to reflection, to that almost artisanal dedication that lies behind every sound journalist.

During the event, the inaugural El Confidencial Investigative Journalism Awards were presented. The accolades recognized significant journalistic work with social impact, including contributions from Dean P. Baquet for lifetime achievement, Aristegui Noticias for the 'Televisa Leaks' investigation, and La Marea for a report on the surrogacy industry. These awards celebrate national and international reporting that uncovers abuses, investigates power structures, or advocates for public policy changes.

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The profession of informing, so profoundly ethical and linked to the responsible achievement of the common good, is always at the antipodes of disinformation, polarization, and tension.