First D-8 Media Forum concluded in Baku with adoption of the Baku Declaration 2025

The Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8) successfully convened the First D-8 Media Forum in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 21 November 2025, hosted by the Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Held under the theme “Fostering Dialogue, Collaboration, and Regional Cohesion,” the Forum brought together ministers, senior officials, journalists, media leaders, and experts from all D-8 Member States to strengthen cooperation in the evolving global media landscape.

Participants engaged in high-level discussions and two thematic panels focusing on responsible journalism, digital innovation, media literacy, strategic communication, and countering misinformation. Delegates highlighted the importance of enhanced collaboration among national media authorities, public broadcasters, and news agencies.

A major milestone of the event was the introduction of the proposed D-8 Media Excellence Center (D-8 MEC), to be hosted by Azerbaijan, envisioned as a hub for training, research, digital capacity-building, and coordinated communication efforts across the D-8 region.

At the conclusion of the Forum, Member States adopted the Baku Declaration 2025 on Collaborative Media Development, reaffirming their commitment to:

  • Strengthen professional exchanges and joint capacity-building programmes
  • Enhance cooperation in content sharing, co-production, and cross-border storytelling
  • Promote ethical journalism, youth-focused media literacy, and responsible use of emerging technologies
  • Develop shared mechanisms to counter misinformation and disinformation
  • Support the operationalization of the D-8 Media Excellence Center with active participation from all Member States

The D-8 Member states expressed gratitude to the Government of Azerbaijan and the Media Development Agency for the excellent arrangements and leadership in hosting this landmark event.

The Forum marks a significant step toward building a more connected, resilient, and collaborative D-8 media ecosystem that advances peace, development, and mutual understanding among Member States.

Baku Declaration 2025 on Collaborative Media Development and Cooperation among D-8 Member States

 

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