October highlights from the Thomson Reuters Foundation
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October update
Welcome to the Thomson Reuters Foundation's monthly newsletter!
Trust Conference 2024:
Reflections from our CEO, Antonio Zappulla
Trust Conference is the culmination of all our work at the Foundation to strengthen free, fair, and informed societies.
This year's conference was our most successful ever. More than 750 people from across the globe joined us to demonstrate their shared commitment to strengthening media freedom, promoting responsible business, and improving access to the law.
We were honoured to host an incredible array of speakers who shared their insights, experiences, and expertise.
Day one focused on defending media freedom in an era of rapid technological advancement and democratic decline.
World-renowned journalists Maria Ressa and Kara Swisher joined Steve Hasker, President and Chief Executive of Reuters, to deliver a stark and compelling discussion on the critical fight to save democracy as factual and unbiased journalism is repeatedly quashed online.
"We became journalists because information is power...But now, that corruption has begun in the information ecosystem."
- Maria Ressa, Co-founder and CEO, Rappler
We heard about the crucial role lawyers play in protecting free and independent media, as well as concerning accounts about the growing challenges and risks that they face.
But I also took great hope and inspiration from the determination of industry professionals such as Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC, Barrister at Doughty Street Chambers, who asserted her unwavering commitment to her vital work defending journalists.
Day two explored the impact of AI on the corporate world and how companies can balance competitive business development with responsible, transparent and sustainable practices.
Mark Surman, President of Mozilla, captivated us with his perspective on the internet as a city, emphasising the need for both public and private spaces, as well as regulatory frameworks.
We focused on the risks associated with unregulated AI systems, especially at a time when we are facing a global race to create, shape, and own this powerful technology.
I was also delighted to launch our AI Governance Disclosure Initiative, in partnership with UNESCO. This is the first tool of its kind, supporting corporate leaders in identifying how their organisation uses AI so that they can harness its power while minimising its risk.
"I would invite as many companies as possible to engage, because at the end of the day, it will make your businesses better, the trust of people in technology will increase, and we will all benefit together.”
- Mariagrazia Squicciarini, Chief of Executive Office at the Social and Human Sciences Sector, UNESCO
I'd really encourage you to register your interest for the initiative, which will open in June next year.
The connections made and ideas shared at Trust Conference 2024 will undoubtedly spark new approaches and drive positive change in the coming year. I cannot wait to see what next year's conference brings. So, save the date - it's happening on the 21 and 22 October 2025.
I'm also thrilled to share below a selection of photos from both days of the conference, which offer a glimpse into the engaging discussions and shared sense of purpose that defined this year's event. But that's not all – keep an eye out for a highlights video that truly captures the essence of the conference, which will be released very soon.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with our work.
Together, we are making a tangible difference in creating a more just and prosperous world for all.
-Antonio Zappulla, CEO, Thomson Reuters Foundation
Our key conference takeaways
Promoting Responsible Business
Businesses across the globe are facing new corporate due diligence regulations that demand more responsible and transparent practices. At Trust Conference, we heard from business leaders such as Lady Lynn Forester de Rothschild and Dr Sally Uren, OBE about the irrefutable business case when it comes to sustainability.
We also heard from Zeeshan Suhail, Social Impact Manager at Nestlé, about the swift transition of business practices in recent years, noting that "what was voluntary five years ago is mandatory today". In light of this, we were thrilled to share the latest findings from our Workforce Disclosure Initiative, a voluntary disclosure programme that aims to improve corporate transparency. This year’s findings reinforce the continued importance of voluntary disclosure, as well as the clear need for comprehensive data to mitigate risks and safeguard human rights.
Strengthening Independent Media
As our civil rights come under increasing pressure during a 'super-election year', journalists from across the world joined us on-stage to share their experiences of reporting during a pivotal moment in history - often at great personal risk. They were unanimous in asserting that independent media is an essential pillar of democracy.
Lotfullah Najafizada, Founder and CEO of Amu TV explained how accurate and balanced reporting that is free from bias is critical to maintaining free, fair, and informed societies: "Our job is not to do regime change... Our job is to inform citizens, let people decide for themselves." Youmna El Sayed and Sevgil Musaeiva shared the dangerous reality and significant psychological toll of reporting on conflict, particularly when their own communities have been devastatingly impacted.
Laura Aguirre, Strategic Director of Alharaca and Director of Development at Sembramedia, also emphasised the profound impact of the work of reporters: " We are not just telling stories, we are witnesses of a time... we are the source of information for future generations. That is what gives me hope."
Enabling Access to the Law
The law is fundamental to protecting the rights of individuals and upholding a just and equal society. However, conference drew attention to a concerning trend: the increasing targeting of lawyers who defend journalists.
In her powerful spotlight presentation, TrustLaw Director Carolina Henriquez-Schmitz stressed that such harassment poses a threat not just to lawyers, but to informed citizenry.
But ultimately, our speakers were optimistic that the technological revolution presents significant opportunities for the justice system, as long as the data is managed responsibly and ethically. Laura Safdie of Thomson Reuters highlighted AI's potential to broaden equal access to legal support, particularly for organisations that serve communities in need. Judge Scott Schlegel celebrated the efficiency these technologies can deliver in the courtroom. However, we must be mindful that AI is trained by people who carry inherent biases, cautioned Bridget Andere of Access Now.
Discover more in our focus areas:
Strengthening Independent Media | Promoting Responsible Business | Enabling Access to the Law
This month we recommend
In celebration of Trust Conference, we’re spotlighting coverage from Context – our digital news platform and headline media partner for the forum.
The articles below focus on some of this year’s key themes, such as the impact of AI on democracy and personal privacy, challenges faced by media in exile, and the role that responsible business can play in the wake of global transformations.
READ: Reporter's notebook: Letting neurotechnology read my mind
READ: How do Trump and Harris differ on AI policy?
READ: One year of war in Gaza: Deadliest conflict for reporters
WATCH: Fighting for food courier safety on South Africa's deadly roads
Thank you to everyone who joined us! Trust Conference is all about bringing people together to inspire action and create solutions.
Subscribe to the Trust Conference YouTube channel to be the first to know when this year’s session recordings are published.
We are the corporate foundation of Thomson Reuters, the global content and technology company. We leverage our media, legal and data-driven expertise to strengthen independent journalism, enable access to the law and promote responsible business.
