Media’s Role in Building Global Trust Highlighted at Assembly of Russian World

The 17th Assembly of the Russian World concluded in Moscow this week with a strong emphasis on the role of media in fostering global trust, cultural dialogue, and mutual understanding among nations.

A special session titled “New Media Dimension: Strengthening Dialogue – Confidence Building” was co-organized by TV BRICS and moderated by its CEO Janna Tolstikova, alongside Mahasha Piet Rampedi, Editor-in-Chief of The African Times in South Africa.

The event brought together media professionals from across the BRICS bloc and the wider Global South, including representatives from Brazil, Nigeria, Egypt, China, Cuba, Mexico, Iran, and others. Speakers underlined the importance of international media cooperation in strengthening communication links and promoting cultural exchange beyond political and geographical boundaries.

Tatiana Shlychkova from the Russkiy Mir Foundation highlighted the potential of the BRICS+ format to enhance mutual trust among peoples, while Nigerian media leader Ali Muhammad Ali stressed the growing importance of creating a shared media space that allows developing nations to tell their own stories on the global stage.

Participants also discussed the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to create a transparent and trustworthy media environment, and to support the development of a more balanced, multipolar information landscape.

Brazilian journalist Dylan Poitevin Della Pasqua called for expanding such initiatives through professional training and educational cooperation to counter disinformation and ensure the circulation of verified information.

“BRICS, as a multicultural and multinational group, sends a clear message to the world — to act not against anyone, but for the sustainable development and prosperity of every country, based on mutual respect and understanding,” one participant said. “The unifying role of media in this process cannot be overstated.”

This year’s Assembly gathered delegates from 105 countries and heads of 76 partner media outlets from 16 nations participating in the TV BRICS Global Media Tour project.

The discussions reflected a growing effort among BRICS and Global South media to build independent communication channels, diversify global narratives, and promote balanced international reporting. By focusing on trust, collaboration, and innovation, participants positioned the media as a key driver in shaping a fairer and more connected global information space.