by Daphne Siozos, programme assistant, EAVI–Media Literacy for Citizenship
The third edition of the Voices Festival of Journalism and Media Freedom took place in Florence, at Teatro del Maggio Musicale, on 10–12 March 2026 and brought together journalists, researchers, policymakers, and citizens for three days of lively exchange, reflection, and collaboration. As an EU-funded initiative, Voices aims to connect journalism and media literacy communities with European citizens and continues to promote a shared understanding of the role of information in democratic societies. With over 2,000 participants, 90 speakers, and 60 sessions, this year’s programme featured high-level debates, interactive workshops, exhibitions, and public conversations addressing some of the most urgent challenges shaping today’s information ecosystem, from artificial intelligence and disinformation to media pluralism, digital wellbeing, and the future of journalism.
A key highlight of the festival was the Voices Awards ceremony, coordinated by EAVI and EUI–Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom, which recognised 25 outstanding achievements in journalism and media literacy across seven categories, celebrating impactful and innovative work from throughout Europe. Additionally, a Grand Prix was awarded to the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, recognising their efforts to promote access to accurate information for Ukrainians and to support independent and responsible media.
Within this broader framework, EAVI actively contributed to the festival’s media literacy dimension by organising two panel discussions. The Human Code: AI and Digital Wellbeing explored how artificial intelligence is shaping our perception of reality and its implications for human wellbeing, featuring Alexandre Le Voci Sayad, Murielle Popa-Fabre, and Julia Haas, and moderated by Paolo Celot. The second panel, Hypnocracy: Between Manipulation and Power: How to Navigate the New Reality, invited Andrea Colamedici to examine emerging forms of influence and control in digital environments, encouraging critical reflection on how individuals can navigate increasingly complex information systems.
In parallel, EAVI coordinated the festival’s fair area, creating an open, interactive space where participants could engage directly with European organisations and explore their projects, campaigns, infographics, and games. In the Meet & Greet Area of the fair, speakers were invited to connect with citizens, and EAVI had the opportunity to film several short, engaging videos with them on their areas of expertise.
Voices is a collaboration involving several European partners who all contribute to a growing European movement that connects local and international perspectives, strengthens cross-sector collaboration, and advances a shared vision for resilient, informed and media-literate societies. After this successful third edition, we are already looking forward to the fourth edition of Voices, which will take place in Thessaloniki from 26-28 November 2026.
More information about this edition and the next one can be found at: https://voicesfestival.eu
