African Media Councils Conference 2026: Advancing Media Self-Regulation and Collective Resilience

As part of its policy and advocacy priorities, the BRAVE programme continues to place strong emphasis on strengthening media self-regulation as a cornerstone of independent, accountable, and sustainable media ecosystems. In this context, a key milestone was achieved in March 2026 through the successful convening of the African Media Councils Conference in Lusaka, Zambia – an initiative supported by BBC Media Action and MISA and hosted by the Media Self-Regulation Council of Zambia.

The conference, titled “Media Councils: A Solidarity-Based Approach to Regulatory, Financial and Digital Challenges,” brought together representatives from press and media councils across 12 African countries. This high-level gathering created a critical platform for dialogue, peer learning, and collective problem-solving among regulatory bodies operating in diverse and often challenging environments. The event was officially opened by Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and attended by key international stakeholders, including representatives from the European Union, FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) and the Swedish Embassy – demonstrating strong global support for advancing independent media governance structures in Africa.

Further details on the conference can be accessed here: https://zambia.misa.org/2026/03/17/misa-zambia-co-hosts-african-media-councils-conference/

A central focus of the conference was the need to reinforce solidarity and coordination among media councils in responding to emerging and persistent challenges. Participants explored mechanisms through which councils can support one another during times of crisis – whether due to restrictive regulatory environments, threats to institutional mandates, or financial sustainability constraints. The discussions highlighted the importance of establishing stronger regional and continental networks capable of providing timely assistance, knowledge exchange, and advocacy support.

Another key thematic area addressed during the conference was the growing impact of digital transformation, particularly the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on media regulation and ethical standards. Participants recognised that while AI presents significant opportunities for innovation within the media sector, it also introduces complex challenges related to misinformation, content verification, and accountability. As such, there was a shared acknowledgement of the need for media councils to proactively engage with these developments, adapt regulatory frameworks, and ensure that ethical principles remain central in an evolving digital landscape.

The conference also underscored the importance of financial resilience for media self-regulatory bodies. Many councils continue to operate under constrained resources, which can limit their effectiveness and independence. In response, participants discussed potential models for sustainable financing, including diversified funding streams and collaborative approaches that reduce dependency while safeguarding autonomy.

Through its support to this initiative, BRAVE contributed to strengthening cross-border collaboration and reinforcing the role of media councils as essential pillars of democratic governance. The conference demonstrated how collective action and shared learning can enhance the capacity of self-regulatory institutions to respond to both longstanding and emerging challenges.

Overall, the African Media Councils Conference represents a significant step in advancing coordinated, cross-border approaches to media self-regulation in Africa – ensuring that institutions are better equipped to respond to regulatory pressures, technological change, and sustainability challenges in an increasingly complex information environment.