BRICS Press Meeting discusses independent journalism and media integration in Southern Hemisphere countries

The BRICS Press Meeting, organised by Toda Palavra, a partner of TV BRICS, in conjunction with TV Comunitaria de Brasilia, began with a speech by Marco Lucchesi, President of the National Library Foundation, at a meeting that brought together journalists from BRICS countries in Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro.

The event opened the discussion by highlighting the cultural potential of the BRICS countries, a vector capable of promoting greater integration between the different nations and cultures of the group. Lucchesi emphasised the importance of valuing what he called "cultural diplomacy," a concept that, according to him, acts as an engine for socio-economic development.

He also commented on the influence of different languages on strengthening ties between peoples.

"[...] When we look at the cultural differences of BRICS, we grow even more, we multiply thanks to this great heritage of languages that are constructions that have been passed down through the millennia," he concluded.

In addition, the event touched on the influence of independent journalism on the global media space. Luiz Augusto Erthal, Founder and Director of the newspaper Toda Palavra, emphasised the transformative nature of the meeting, which promotes dialogue between media representatives of BRICS member countries in order to advance multipolarity.

"The group was formed in the interests of multipolarity of power among nations and the construction of a more just world. [...] We are seeing many independent journalists making efforts to promote these changes," he said.

Journalists from independent media outlets, including representatives of TV BRICS, also took part in a round table discussion entitled "Developing Independent Communication Networks for the Southern Hemisphere."

TV BRICS International Projects Coordinator Svetlana Shlyubul emphasised that building effective media cooperation is an important tool for greater integration between BRICS+ countries.

"In today's world, the media is the main tool for shaping information reality and public opinion, so coordinated and effective cooperation between the media is not only desirable but also necessary. Without it, it is difficult to imagine constructive and harmonious cooperation between countries. And today we are pleased to share our experience and results of establishing international cooperation in the field of media in the BRICS+ countries," she emphasised.

In turn, Fernando Horta, historian and researcher at the Brazilian Ministry of Science and Technology, emphasised the role of communication and media interaction around BRICS as the basis for a new global consciousness.

"Public knowledge about BRICS' actions is fundamental to legitimising and strengthening integration processes that represent an alternative to the traditional unipolar economic model. The current geopolitical transition in the world requires citizens to be informed about the new power dynamics emerging on the international stage. The BRICS communication event directly contributes to the formation of this critical thinking," he said.

Journalists and media representatives from BRICS countries decided to make the forum for discussion, opened by this first meeting, a permanent one, strengthening communication on the group's agenda.

Photo: Claudio Fernandes / Government of Niteroi