In his concluding statements at the ninth consecutive Global Media Forum, DW Director General Peter Limbourg emphasized the importance of European values. He highlighted the need for Germany and Europe to uphold and share these values, acknowledging that there are instances where they fall short. Limbourg mentioned issues such as arms sales, environmental pollution, and cooperation with corrupt regimes as examples of areas where improvement is needed. The event brought together over 2,000 participants from 110 countries in the former West German capital for a three-day annual Global Media Forum. The conference focused on addressing challenging topics related to "Media. Freedom. Values." Journalists in various countries encounter tough situations, prompting discussions on the role of media, freedom of expression, and the importance of protecting values. German President Joachim Gauck delivered an inspiring message to conference participants, emphasizing the shared responsibility of journalists worldwide. He highlighted the abundance of information available today, but also warned of the increasing risks of manipulation and disinformation. Gauck stressed the importance of upholding reliable journalism that can be trusted. A highlight of the Global Media Forum was when Sedat Ergin, editor-in-chief of Turkish newspaper Hürriyet, was honored with the Deutsche Welle Freedom of Speech Award. Upon receiving the award, Ergin expressed his concerns about the increasing issues related to freedom of expression in various countries, including democracies. Kai Diekmann, a fellow journalist and publisher, emphasized the importance of press freedom and the worrying state of it in Turkey. Reaction from Turkish media close to the ruling party was extreme, highlighting the pressures faced by journalists in the country. The role of bloggers and activists in societies with limited freedom of speech was once again a topic of discussion at the GMF. Egyptian satirist Bassem Youssef attended the award ceremony in Bonn for The Bobs, which recognize the best international online activists. The German Commissioner for Human Rights Policy, Bärbel Kofler, participated in a panel discussion with bloggers from Bangladesh who are currently seeking asylum in Germany and other European countries. The forum focused on journalists who are in danger in their home countries due to attacks by Islamist extremists and lack of government protection, aiming to raise awareness for the importance of asylum. Journalist and author Martin Walker provided a pessimistic outlook on the future of media during the event. International speakers emphasized that the media is facing a crucial turning point. The increasing emphasis on direct communication with individuals worldwide through social media presents new possibilities for journalism. Limbourg, the Director General of DW, stated that media must take advantage of this opportunity in order to have a significant impact.