Astana Media Week 2026 kicks off

Astana Media Week 2026 kicks off

The future of journalism in the age of artificial intelligence and digital technologies is being discussed at Astana Media Week. Now in its 10th edition, the international forum in the Kazakh capital has brought together journalists, media executives and representatives of technology companies from Kazakhstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Switzerland and other countries. Invited experts include representatives from Euronews, Meta and TikTok. As more people worldwide turn to the internet for information, nearly half of Kazakh residents now get their news from social media and messaging apps. Newsrooms are also adapting to the changing media landscape. AI is helping create content, while traditional media outlets are embracing new digital platforms. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan’s media market continues to grow. Over the past decade, the number of media outlets in the country has more than doubled to 5,500. In this context, the accuracy of information and audience trust are becoming increasingly important. These are among the key issues being discussed at the forum, which also provides a platform for sharing expertise and signing new agreements in the media sector.

«Our colleagues plan to sign several content-related agreements with their counterparts from other countries. Preparations are also underway for the signing of a memorandum on countering disinformation. In addition, a meeting of information ministers from Turkic-speaking countries will take place, during which a communiqué will be signed. Astana Media Week has therefore traditionally served as a platform not only for discussions but also for signing various agreements and contracts,» said Kanat Iskakov, Kazakh First Vice Minister of Culture and Information.