AI and journalism: A double-edged sword for press freedom, says Australian High Commissioner

Journalism is changing rapidly due to technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) is both a helpful tool and a potential threat.

At the World Press Freedom Day 2025 event in Accra, Berenice Owen-Jones spoke about AI's impact. She is Australia’s High Commissioner to Ghana. Owen-Jones called for careful consideration of AI in media.

“Media freedom is diminishing in many countries,” she warned. She referenced the latest World Press Freedom Index. “Disinformation, propaganda, and AI threaten journalism,” she added.

Owen-Jones noted that while AI can improve efficiency, it also raises ethical concerns. AI tools can create deepfake videos and spread propaganda. This manipulation makes it easier to distort reality and erodes public trust in media.

“AI can spread false information and increase online hate speech,” she said. It can also support new forms of censorship.

However, Owen-Jones recognized the positive aspects of AI when used responsibly. Journalists can benefit from automated transcription and data analysis. These tools enhance productivity and allow for deeper investigative work.

For the public, AI can provide accurate information if verified properly.

The dual nature of AI requires global discussions and local solutions. Owen-Jones stressed that newsrooms should create internal codes of conduct for using AI. They should also invest in fact-checking and media literacy programs.

“Newsrooms are increasingly fact-checking,” she noted, encouraging this trend. Embassies like Australia’s should support these initiatives as well.

She highlighted risks to journalists covering sensitive topics due to AI misuse. Some tools have been weaponized as spyware against journalists, risking their safety.

Owen-Jones urged all stakeholders—governments, media organizations, tech companies—to engage actively with ethical AI use in journalism. “Reliable information is crucial amid fake news and disinformation campaigns,” she stated.

As World Press Freedom Day focused on AI this year, her remarks reflected a growing consensus: The future of journalism depends on how society uses technology responsibly. This choice could lead to either an informed or misled public.