During his closing speech at the ninth consecutive Global Media Forum, DW Director General Peter Limbourg emphasized the importance of European values. He highlighted the need for countries in Germany and Europe to uphold and share these values, acknowledging that there are instances where they fall short. Limbourg specifically mentioned issues such as arms sales, environmental pollution, and cooperation with corrupt regimes as examples of where improvement is needed. The forum brought together over 2,000 participants from 110 countries in the former West German capital for a three-day event. The conference focused on discussing tough topics related to "Media. Freedom. Values." Journalists in various countries often encounter challenging circumstances. The conference explored the importance of media, freedom of expression, and the values that require safeguarding. German President Joachim Gauck delivered a powerful message to conference participants, emphasizing the shared responsibility of journalists worldwide. He highlighted the abundance of information available today, but also the increasing risk of manipulation and disinformation. Gauck stressed the importance of upholding reliable journalism that can be trusted. A notable moment at the Global Media Forum was when Sedat Ergin, editor-in-chief of Hürriyet, received the Deutsche Welle Freedom of Speech Award. Upon receiving the award, Ergin expressed his concerns about the lack of freedom of expression not only in authoritarian regimes, but also in so-called democracies. Fellow journalist Kai Diekmann emphasized the importance of press freedom and criticized the state of the press in Turkey. Some Turkish media outlets close to the ruling party reacted strongly, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in the country. The role of bloggers and activists in societies without freedom of speech was also discussed at the GMF. Egyptian satirist Bassem Youssef participated in the award ceremony for The Bobs in Bonn, an event hosted by Deutsche Welle to recognize outstanding international online activists. German Commissioner for Human Rights Policy Bärbel Kofler joined a panel discussion with bloggers from Bangladesh who have sought asylum in Germany and other European countries due to threats from Islamist extremists and lack of protection from their government. The Forum aimed to raise awareness about the importance of providing asylum to journalists whose lives are at risk in their home countries. Journalist and author Martin Walker provided a somber assessment of the future of media, while international speakers on various panels at the conference emphasized that the media is currently at a critical turning point. The increasing emphasis on direct communication with people globally via social media presents journalism with new possibilities. DW's Director General Limbourg emphasized the importance of seizing this opportunity to have a real impact.