MEDIA FREEDOM AWARDS

Shortlist announced for Media Freedom Awards 2026

The shortlist has been announced this week for the Society of Editors’ Media Freedom Awards 2026.

Setting the benchmark for a celebration of UK public interest and campaigning journalism, the awards recognise excellence across all sectors of the UK news industry and will culminate with a high-profile ceremony at the Underglobe in London on the evening of Wednesday 11 November 2026.

The awards will be presented by ITV News Presenter Lucrezia Millarini, right, with sponsorship by Allwyn, VodafoneThree, Octopus Energy and Qwoted. Qwoted is a free network connecting journalists with verified experts, sources, and case studies.

Announcing the shortlist, Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society and co-chair of the judges, said: “This week’s shortlist is a powerful reminder of the vital role that journalism plays in a free and democratic society. The journalists and news organisations recognised have demonstrated courage, determination and a commitment to reporting in the public interest, often in challenging and difficult circumstances.

“At a time when press freedom is under increasing pressure, it is more important than ever that we champion the right of journalists to investigate, question and hold power to account. We must also ensure that journalists can do their jobs safely, both in the UK and around the world, without facing intimidation, harassment or threats simply for reporting the truth.

“We are delighted to celebrate this outstanding group of nominees and the contribution they make to a healthy, informed democracy. We look forward to welcoming the shortlisted journalists, editors and news leaders to the Media Freedom Awards ceremony on 11 November, when we will come together to recognise their achievements and celebrate the importance of a free press.”

View the shortlist

Booking now open
Individual bookings and table sales are now open for the Media Freedom Awards ceremony on Wednesday 11 November 2026. The event will bring together editors, journalists and producers from across the media sector. An early bird booking rate is available until 12 October, with further details available from the Society’s office at office@societyofeditors.org.

Book now

Local media and devolution
The FT has this week urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to extend his plans for regional powers and devolution to the local press. Writing as part of an Op Ed, the FT said that government plans to decentralise power could not be achieved without the presence of a strong local media sector. West Dunbartonshire Council’s reporting restrictions (the ban on The Democrat speaking to their ‘communications’ staff) mean we cannot claim to be free. Is there no councillor with the courage to have this ban lifted?

AI newsroom research
The NCTJ has recently published new research into the use of artificial intelligence in UK newsrooms as it introduces changes to the Diploma in Journalism to reflect the growing use of AI in journalism. The research found that AI was being used by all those consulted, although the level and type of use varied considerably. In response, the NCTJ is embedding AI literacy more widely across the Diploma in Journalism and its wider training provision, helping journalists understand how to use AI responsibly, ethically and effectively.