Media Governance and Digital Policy

Prof. Guy Berger is a distinguished expert in communications policy, serving as a Professor Emeritus at UNESCO after a significant tenure leading its work in Communications and Information Policy. With extensive research into African and global communications issues, he has published numerous works and overseen over 40 UNESCO publications on topics including disinformation, access to information, artificial intelligence, journalism, and internet governance. Prior to his role at UNESCO, he headed the School of Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University in South Africa. His contributions to the field are reflected in more than 60 publications, including co-authoring influential texts such as Responsible Data Science (Wiley, 2021) and Handbook of Statistical Analysis and Data Mining Applications. Prof. Berger is recognized for his ability to engage diverse stakeholders in discussions about media freedom, safety of journalists, and the importance of media literacy in contemporary society.

Hendrik Bussiek is a freelance media expert specializing in media reform efforts, with a significant focus on enhancing communications policy in Africa. He has authored key works such as Toolbox: The Media: Making Democracy Work, Freedom of Expression and Media Regulation: A Media Legislation Manual, and served as the editor for the Public Broadcasting in Africa series. Bussiek has collaborated with various media rights organizations throughout his career, working in Harare, Zimbabwe (1992-1995), Cape Town, South Africa (1995-2012), and currently based in Berlin. His expertise includes advocating for independent media regulations and promoting the transformation of state broadcasters into public entities that serve democratic interests.

Franz Krüger is an esteemed Professor at the Wits Centre for Journalism, specializing in journalism, media ethics, radio journalism, and community media. He has authored significant works including Black, White and Grey: Ethics in South African Journalism (2004), The Radio Journalism Toolkit (2006), and Greening Africa’s News Deserts: The Search for Sustainable Local Journalism in Sub-Saharan Africa (2023). With a rich background in professional journalism, he has served as a senior member of the first post-apartheid editorial management team at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and has extensive experience in both print and broadcasting. Krüger holds an MA from City University and a PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand. He is also involved in various initiatives related to media ethics and education, including serving as Deputy Press Ombud with the South African Press Council. His contributions to journalism education and practice have made him a respected figure in the field