The regional conference “Community Media in the Digital Age” (25 Years of Independent, Rights-Based Community Media) will kick off next Saturday in the Jordanian capital, Amman. The event is organized by the Community Media Network (CMN)—one of the leading non-profit platforms in the field of media across the Middle East and North Africa—to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Radio Al-Balad (AmmanNet), the first electronic and community radio station in the Arab world.

The two-day conference, held on November 15 and 16, is expected to attract around 300 participants from Jordan and abroad, including over 50 international guests representing the media, civil society, academia, and decision-makers, to discuss the future of community media amid rapid digital transformations.

The conference aims to highlight the vital role of community media in promoting transparency, empowering marginalized groups, and supporting social change, while also addressing the legal and financial challenges facing the sector and exploring pathways for sustainability and networking with civil society.

CMN emphasized that this event marks a pivotal moment to rethink the future of community media in the region and to strengthen platforms that amplify all voices within a rights-based and socially just framework. The network also welcomed institutions interested in hosting special sessions during the conference, offering logistical support and inclusion in the official program.

The Community Media Network extends its gratitude to the conference partners: International Media Support (IMS), the European Union, the French Media Development Agency, the Canadian Embassy, UNESCO, the Embassy of Ireland, Alaraby TV, ARIJ – Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism, and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Jordan.

Conference digital partner: Digital Solutions
Media partner: Al Mamlaka TV
Transportation partners: Petra Ride and JET.