AI Won't Replace Journalists, But Will Reshape Media Landscape, Says ANA/MPA President

Istanbul, Turkey (September 9, 2024): Artificial intelligence (AI) presents both opportunities and challenges for the media industry, and while it won't replace journalists, it will significantly alter their work, said Aimilios Perdikaris, president of the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA/MPA).

Speaking at a panel discussion on AI organized by the Turkish news agency Anadolu during the 32nd general meeting of the ABNA-SE association of Balkan news agencies, Perdikaris stressed the need for new work models in a constantly evolving media landscape.

"I don't expect AI to replace us, but it will change the way we work and can become a powerful tool in our hands," Perdikaris stated, emphasizing the importance of adapting to and adopting new technologies without sacrificing the human element of journalism. He reassured the audience that media professionals will maintain their crucial role in the publishing process, making the final decision on what gets released.

Perdikaris acknowledged concerns about the potential for AI misuse, highlighting the need for comprehensive training on its responsible and effective use. This training, he argued, should extend beyond journalists to include the public, who increasingly rely on digital platforms for information.

"When we talk about artificial intelligence, we are essentially talking about the fifth industrial revolution," Perdikaris remarked, acknowledging the rapid pace of technological advancement while dismissing fears of machines taking over. "Machines will not conquer us, even if robots do indeed circulate among us in some cases."

During the ABNA-SE general meeting, Perdikaris was unanimously re-elected to the Board of Directors for a three-year term.