MediaCon
The journalism
we want
10-11 Oct 25

Gif über die Journalismustreffen MediaCon, die verschiedene Themen des Programms hervorheben. Design: Napperon © Goethe-Institut

GIF dedicated to the journalism talks MediaCon, highlighting the diverse topics of the programme. Design: Napperon © Goethe-Institut

On 10 and 11 October 2025, the second edition of the journalism talks MediaCon will take place at the Goethe-Institut in Lisbon. Under the motto The journalism we want, the aim is to provide food for thought on the current role of journalism in the age of disinformation.

The programme includes panel discussions, talks and masterclasses that offer the opportunity to reflect on the role of journalism in the current context and create possible paths towards ethically responsible quality journalism. At the same time, it also offers the opportunity to explore specific topics such as cultural critic, cross-border journalism or science communication in greater depth for a specialised audience. A Pecha Kucha for project presentations and a media fair round off the programme with free admission.

Registration for MediaCon 2025

Panel discussion

10.10 | 19:00 | Auditorium | PT/DE

How technology favours the rise of populist movements in journalism

The consolidation of large media groups has not only led to new opportunities for collaboration and new target groups, but has also contributed to greater uncertainty. From social networks to news aggregators and artificial intelligence: what challenges does technology pose for journalism today and how can they be met? A debate organised in collaboration with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Portugal with Joana Gorjão Henriques (Público), Marc Engelhardt (Correctiv) and Vania Baldi (OberCom), moderated by João Ribeiro (Shifter).
11.10. | 19:00 | Auditorium | PT/EN

Media literacy in a world beyond the fact-check

What is media literacy anyway? How can we think beyond the topic of the endless cycle of fake news and fact-checks and reach all sections of the population? A debate organised in collaboration with Creative Europe Portugal, with the participation of Alba Tobella (Verificat), Marta G. Franco (Laintersección) and Margarida Maneta (Universidade Lusófona, CICANT). Moderated by Carolina Franco (Público na Escola).

Talks

10.10 | 11:30 | Auditorium | PT

Research Grants and Support for Journalism

What impact do research grants have on supporting critical journalism? A conversation about the challenges faced by professionals working both inside and outside major newsrooms, and the opportunities created by the wide range of available grants and funding programs.
10.10 | 17h00 | Library | PT

Content creators and access to information

Access to the profession and precarious working conditions in an environment where attention and trust are increasingly shifting to individuals and new entrepreneurs. Should we continue down this path or should we reduce the distance between independent creatives and traditional news organisations to encourage innovative collaborations? A conversation with Joana Guerra Tadeu, Patrícia Barnabé and Ricardo Morais (CITCEM/LabCom), moderated by Catarina Carvalho (Mensagem de Lisboa),
11.10 | 11:30 | Library | PT

A current outlook on cultural criticism

The time and attention devoted to the art of cultural criticism in the media is increasingly shrinking. How can criticism influence the work of artists and why are critical contributions in journalism increasingly being marginalised? A conversation with Cláudia Lucas Chéu, Filipa Vaz Teixeira and José Paiva, moderated by Miguel Santos.
11.10. | 15:00 | Library | PT

How can regional journalism be saved?

With the digital transformation, regional journalism has gained in audience and influence. However, despite the ever-increasing number of readers, it is losing more subscribers and advertising investment every year. Together with Patrícia Fonseca (Médio Tejo), Pedro Jerónimo (LabCom) and Nuno Francisco (Jornal do Fundão) will enter into dialogue and discuss the extent to which regional journalism can (still) be saved.
11.10 | 17:00 | Library | PT

The role of photography in the creation of narratives

The visual character of every statement, every report or every piece of information has become increasingly relevant and closer to the reader. How can photojournalism intervene or offer resistance? What role does photography play in an era of rapid technological development? A conversation with Bárbara Monteiro (Associação Narrativa), Fátima Lopes Cardoso (ESCS) and Reinaldo Rodrigues (Diário de Notícias), moderated by Ana Sofia Paiva (ICNOVA / ObiMedia).

Masterclasses

11.10 | 10:00 | Room 1 | PT

Science communication: Bridges to the academic world

This masterclass with Joana Lobo Antunes is specifically aimed at journalists and journalism students who want to deepen their knowledge of reporting on scientific topics and improve their interaction with the academic community.
10.10 | 14:00 | Room 1 | PT

Cross-border journalism: What's next?

Cross-border journalism can play an important role in promoting transparency and accountability of governments and institutions. What are the specificities of this type of journalism? How can investigations be carried out in a network? A masterclass with Paulo Pena.
11.10. | 10:00 | Room 1 | EN

Reporting on the internet and fact-checking tools for journalists

In this masterclass with Alba Tobella (Verificat), we will dive on the work of fact-checking organizations to discover how journalists can incorporate this perspective. The masterclass will be in English.
11.10. | 14:00 | Room 1 | PT

How does the editorial office of a university radio station work?

How is the editorial team of a university radio station organised today? What role can it play in critical education and in promoting a more pluralistic, participatory and public interest-orientated journalism? A Masterclass with Isabel Marques, news director at Rádio Universitária de Aveiro.

Side Programm

10.10. | 15:00 | Library | PT

Pecha Kucha

Short presentations showcasing innovative projects in the field of journalism — from early-stage prototypes to well-established initiatives. In just 20 slides, we get to discover some of the most exciting projects driving journalism forward today.
10.-11.10. | 10:00 - 18:00 | Foyer

Media fair

A media fair featuring independent journalism publications, bringing together a diverse range of editorial projects committed to critical and pluralistic information.