WAN-IFRA calls for strengthening of core values of independent news media

"We are here to learn how to take advantage of the amazing tools that are in our hands today. We are also here to take the long view, to consider what the future of journalism will hold in 10 to 20 years," said Marcelo Rech, President of the World Editors Forum, at the 14th annual International Newsroom Summit, one of several conferences taking place during the Expo. "We are here to preserve the journalistic integrity of our newsrooms and freedom of expression."

Thousands of visitors are expected in Hamburg, as the trade show includes more than 200 exhibitors, representing some of the major suppliers to the publishing industry but also including dozens of newcomers and start-ups that are bringing new ideas into the media industry. The Expo includes a dedicated Start-Up Area this year.

Olaf Scholz, the First Mayor of the City of Hamburg, welcomed the Expo by stressing the news media's essential position in society. "The sector plays a key role in creating a public social and cultural life, making it an essential component of Hamburg's self-perception. Now, it's about making sure that the structure of the media and creative business, which has developed over decades, successfully takes the leap into the digital future - a process that holds numerous challenges, but is also rich in opportunities," he said.

The events include the Newsroom Summit #newsroom 15, the Mobile News Summit #mns15, the World Printers Forum #wpf15, as well as two Media Port open stages. The Expo also offers a Color Quality workshop and a Wearables workshop, as well as Innovation Tours to leading media companies in Hamburg. For more information, go to www.wan-ifra.org.