Khaled Bekdash: Responsible Journalism Is a Key Partner in Building Peace and Strengthening Dialogue Among Peoples

Yasmine Hammamet, Tunisia

The International Press and Media Organization – Netherlands participated in the activities of the First International Conference on Peace and Cultural Diplomacy, held in Yasmine Hammamet, Tunisia, from 4 to 6 September 2026, under the theme: “Through Culture We Meet… Through Peace We Rise.”

The conference brought together a distinguished group of intellectuals, media professionals, researchers, artists, and cultural figures from Tunisia and several countries to discuss the role of culture, media, and cultural diplomacy in promoting peace, dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among peoples.

The participation of the International Organization for Press and Media – Netherlands reflects its commitment to supporting international initiatives aimed at promoting a culture of peace and dialogue, strengthening communication between peoples and cultures, and addressing hate speech, misinformation, and media polarization.

During the conference, the Organization presented a working paper entitled:

“The Role of Media and Cultural Diplomacy in Promoting Peace and Building Bridges of Communication Among Peoples.”

The paper addressed the importance of professional journalism in shaping public awareness and contributing to dialogue, tolerance, mutual understanding, and respect for cultural diversity.

Statement by Khaled Bekdash, President of the Organization

In his address to the conference, Khaled Bekdash, President of the International Press and Media Organization – Netherlands, emphasized that peace cannot be achieved through political agreements alone, but requires an integrated approach involving culture, media, civil society, and other sectors.

He stressed that the media has a major responsibility in shaping public consciousness and that the journalistic word can either serve as a bridge for communication and rapprochement or, when misused, contribute to division and conflict.

Bekdash said:

“Our participation in the First International Conference on Peace and Cultural Diplomacy stems from our firm belief that the media has a fundamental responsibility in building peace and promoting a culture of dialogue among peoples. An honest and responsible journalistic message can open doors for communication and bring cultures and communities closer together.”

He added:

“At the International Press and Media Organization – Netherlands we believe that a journalist is not merely a transmitter of news, but also a partner in shaping public awareness and public opinion. Our responsibility today is therefore to support professional journalism, strengthen ethical standards, and confront hate speech and misinformation, which have become among the most serious challenges facing societies in the digital age.”

Bekdash further highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy as an effective space for dialogue among peoples, noting that cultural exchange provides opportunities for direct interaction between societies and contributes to building relationships based on mutual respect and understanding, away from stereotypes and preconceived judgments.

He emphasized that media and culture can work together as powerful instruments of soft power in support of peace, stating:

“When culture meets responsible journalism, we do not merely communicate a message of peace; we contribute to creating a social and intellectual environment capable of protecting and sustaining peace. This is why international conferences and forums that bring together media professionals, intellectuals, researchers, and decision-makers around a shared vision for a safer and more cooperative future are so important.”

The President of the Organization also called for strengthening international cooperation among media institutions, cultural organizations, and civil society organizations, as well as developing joint programs to train journalists and young people in combating misinformation and hate speech and in producing content that promotes tolerance, coexistence, and social peace.

Working Paper on Media and Peace

The Organization’s working paper addressed several key issues, including the role of media in peacebuilding, the importance of cultural diplomacy in bringing peoples together, the responsibility of media organizations in combating hate speech, and the challenges created by social media platforms and the rapid spread of fake news and misinformation.

The paper emphasized the need to move beyond viewing the media merely as a means of reporting events toward recognizing it as an active partner in building societies and promoting dialogue and mutual understanding, while maintaining professional and ethical standards and ensuring the public’s right to accurate and reliable information.

The Organization also stressed the importance of supporting journalists and developing their professional and digital skills so that they can effectively respond to the rapidly changing media environment and verify information and sources before publication.

Towards International Partnerships for Peace

The First International Conference on Peace and Cultural Diplomacy provided an important platform for dialogue and the exchange of experiences and perspectives on the potential of culture, arts, and media to promote peace and strengthen human, cultural, and civilizational ties among peoples.

The International Organization for Press and Media – Netherlands reaffirmed that its participation in the conference represents another step toward strengthening its presence in international forums focusing on media, peace, and cultural diplomacy, while opening new opportunities for cooperation and partnerships with relevant institutions, organizations, and international bodies.

At the conclusion of his participation, Khaled Bekdash expressed his appreciation to the Republic of Tunisia and the organizers of the conference for hosting this international event.

He highlighted Tunisia’s rich cultural and civilizational heritage and its long-standing tradition of openness and dialogue, stressing that Tunisia can continue to play an important role in strengthening bridges of communication among peoples and cultures.

Bekdash concluded:

“Peace is a shared responsibility, and media and culture are among the most important tools we have today to build a world based on greater understanding and tolerance. At the International Organization for Press and Media – Netherlands, we will continue working with our partners to promote professional journalism, a culture of dialogue, and diplomacy that opens the doors to peace.”