Following the example of the previous two editions of Local Media Days, which took place in Lublin and Wrocław, the event brought together local journalists from across the country for a day full of lectures, practical advice, and discussions.

Jacek Pawłowski from TVN24 presented an overview of research on the condition and reception of local media. He pointed to changes in content consumption, the growing importance of information verification, and the expectations of local audiences, emphasizing that editorial offices must adapt their forms and topics in order to effectively reach their communities.

An important part of the meeting was a lecture by Tomasz Sekielski entitled “How local journalism shaped me.” He talked about his beginnings – the reactivation of the school radio station in Bydgoszcz and his work at local stations – emphasizing that it was field practice that taught him to listen to people, get to the heart of the matter, and act quickly, often without any time to prepare. He also spoke about the role of local media in combating disinformation and that local media are often the first to respond to specific problems faced by residents.

The topic of financing and editorial independence came up repeatedly in the discussions. Tomasz Sekielski warned against dependence on local advertisers and local governments, which could threaten press freedom. He also pointed to the risk of consolidation and standardization of content when nationwide networks take over local media. He appealed for the preservation of local identity and a focus on everyday issues – conditions of streets, neighborhoods, and on topics close to people’s hearts.

The practical dimension of the meeting was complemented by Andrzej Andrysiak, Journalist of the Year 2024 and President of the SGL Local Press Association, who shared with participants his experience on procedures for requesting public information and effective communication with local government. His lecture was complemented by a set of tools necessary for every local journalist who encounters barriers to accessing information.

“Local newsrooms are the foundation of a healthy public life – they build social bonds, explain locally relevant issues, and act as guardians of transparency. In an environment of growing disinformation, their role is crucial, and investment in development of the competence and financial independence of local media is necessary,” believes Maciej Starczewski, President of the Media Forum Foundation.

The meeting in Bydgoszcz combined theory with practice: from research and analysis to personal stories and work tools. For the participants, it was a source of inspiration, a reminder of the value of journalism close to the people, and concrete help in their daily editorial challenges.

The aim of the “Media Forum. Local Development” program is professional development of local media journalists by improving their skills through training conducted by experienced journalists of national and local media, and other experts. From 2021 to 2025, nearly 500 local media journalists participated in training sessions organized as part of this project by the Media Forum Foundation.