The world of media is changing faster than a morning coffee cools on an editor’s desk. Algorithms determine reach, platforms take over advertising, and new regulations set the boundaries of responsibility and freedom of speech. In this dynamic landscape, it is local media that remain closest to citizens – reporting on local government decisions, holding authorities accountable, and building a real information community.
But are local newsrooms today able to effectively fulfill this role?
We will seek answers during the XIV Congress of Polish Media under the slogan:
“Local Media: A Pillar of Democracy”
February 25, 2026 (Wednesday), 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Warsaw House of Technology NOT
ul. Czackiego 3/5, Warsaw
For years, this event has been one of the most important gatherings for publishers, editors-in-chief, journalists, media law experts, and representatives of public institutions. This year’s edition promises to be particularly significant – we are living in a reality of groundbreaking EU regulations that came into force in August 2025.
After several months of the new regulations being in effect, it’s time for a thorough analysis: what works, what needs correction, and what consequences are newsrooms experiencing in practice?
Three Key Areas of Debate
The program of the XIV Congress of Polish Media focuses on issues that directly impact the future of independent local journalism.
1. European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) – One Year After Implementation
EMFA was intended to strengthen the protection of newsrooms against unjustified surveillance, ensure greater transparency of funding, and limit political pressure on public and private media.
During the Congress, experts will answer questions such as:
- Do the new regulations genuinely protect the independence of newsrooms?
- How is the practical application of the provisions in Poland?
- Do publishers today have more effective tools to defend against political and administrative pressure?
This is a discussion that goes beyond theory – it concerns the daily work of editors and the safety of journalists.
2. Unequal Fight for the Market – Local Government Media vs. Independent Press
One of the most controversial topics in recent years is the growing role of media funded by local governments. Bulletins, information portals, city newspapers – often financed from public budgets – compete with independent newsrooms in the same advertising and information market.
During the panels, experts and practitioners will analyze:
- where the line between public information and promotion of authorities lies,
- whether the current funding model for local government media distorts competition,
- what legislative solutions can restore market balance.
This is a debate about the principles of fair competition and whether local private media today have equal chances to operate.
3. Money and “Soft Power” – Financial Pressure Through Advertising
State and local government advertising has for years remained one of the most important sources of revenue for many newsrooms. At the same time, its distribution raises questions about transparency and the potential use of advertising budgets as a tool of influence.
Within the framework of the Congress, topics discussed will include:
- mechanisms for allocating advertising funds from public institutions,
- standards of transparency and reporting,
- good practices limiting the risk of financial dependence for newsrooms.
This is a crucial discussion about the economic foundations of media independence.
Why is it worth participating?
The XIV Congress of Polish Media is not only about debates, but also a space for:
- exchanging experiences between publishers from different regions,
- establishing industry partnerships,
- consultations with lawyers and media market experts,
- learning about current regulatory and business trends.
In times of increasing information centralization and the dominance of global digital platforms, local media must develop new operating models – both legal and financial. The Congress is an opportunity to jointly set the direction for the coming years.
Patronage and Significance of the Event
The XIV Congress of Polish Media is held under the patronage of the Ombudsman for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Agnieszka Majewska. This symbolically emphasizes that local media are part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem and play an important role in the development of regional markets.
Strong, independent local media are not only a guarantee of pluralism but also the foundation of a stable business and social environment.
Registration
Participation in the Congress requires prior registration. The application form is available at:
https://media.szef.co/formularze/kongres-mediow
The number of places is limited.
On February 25, 2026, in Warsaw, those who care about the future of local media in Poland will meet.
If you are a publisher, journalist, media lawyer, local government representative, or communication market expert – this event is for you.
See you at the XIV Congress of Polish Media.
