Current challenges for media: Thomas Mattsson lecture at Grinchenko University

On May 2, on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, students of the Faculty of Journalism of Borys Grinchenko Kyiv Metropolitan University took part in a unique event – ​​an open lecture by one of the most famous European media experts, Thomas Mattsson.

The Swedish journalist, the editor-in-chief of the national daily newspaper Expressen/co-founder of the Ukrainian Media Fund, and long-time defender of freedom of speech, shared his experience and vision of the future of the media industry. Currently, Thomas Mattsson is actively developing partnerships between European and Ukrainian media, providing professional support and expertise in difficult times for Ukraine.

In the lecture entitled Modern Challenges for Media Industry in Scandinavian Countries, Challenges for Freedom of Speech and Independence. Solidarity with Ukrainian Media, Mattsson highlighted key issues: political pressure, economic challenges, and ethical dilemmas of the digital age. He emphasized that a modern journalist works in a zone of constant tension – both external and internal, which requires not only professionalism but also great moral stability.

Thomas Mattsson devoted a separate part of his speech to technologies and artificial intelligence. He urged future journalists not to be afraid of AI but to perceive it as a tool that can significantly improve the quality of work – from the automation of routine tasks to the analysis of large data sets.

Other important highlights of the speech included the fight against disinformation, the importance of fact-checking, and the obligation of journalists to adhere to ethical standards. “Tabloids should fight fakes, not spread them,” Mattsson noted, emphasizing the responsibility of everyone working in the information sector.

The meeting aroused lively interest: students actively asked questions, discussed professional challenges, and discussed innovations in the media. The atmosphere was extremely inspiring, and the meeting was a truly valuable experience and motivational boost.

Veronika Rodzinska, 1^st-year student of the Media Production educational program at Grinchenko University

Photo from Thomas Mattsson’s Facebook page