Every year, broadcasters and media professionals gather at conferences, forums, and summits to explore the future of media. We discuss artificial intelligence, digital transformation, evolving audience expectations, content innovation, and the changing role of public service media. These conversations are essential, but the ABU General Assembly is more than another industry event. It is where the Asia-Pacific broadcasting community comes together to shape a shared vision for the future.

This year’s theme, “Media for Peace and Humanity: Truth, Trust, and Transformation,” could not be timelier.

In an increasingly complex world, where misinformation spreads rapidly, technology is reshaping the media landscape, and societies are becoming more polarised, broadcasters have a responsibility that extends far beyond delivering news and entertainment. They are trusted institutions that help people understand the world, connect communities, promote dialogue, and contribute to peace, resilience, and social cohesion.

The 63^rd ABU General Assembly, to be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, provides a unique opportunity for broadcasters to reflect on these responsibilities together. It is a platform where media leaders can exchange ideas, learn from one another’s experiences, and explore practical solutions to the challenges that affect us all—from maintaining public trust and editorial integrity to embracing digital transformation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of public service media.

The General Assembly is also where the Union charts its future. Through its governance meetings, strategic discussions, and member engagement, delegates help shape the direction of the ABU and strengthen regional cooperation. Every conversation contributes to a stronger, more connected broadcasting community.

Yet some of the most valuable outcomes are often found beyond the meeting rooms. Conversations over coffee, informal exchanges between sessions, and new introductions frequently lead to lasting partnerships, innovative projects, and collaborations that continue long after the Assembly has concluded. These personal connections remain one of the greatest strengths of the ABU.

Our region is remarkably diverse in culture, language, political systems, and media environments. Despite these differences, ABU members are united by a common purpose: to serve the public with truthful, trusted, and meaningful content. The General Assembly reminds us that while each broadcaster faces unique challenges, many of our aspirations are shared—and together we are stronger.

As we gather in Colombo, we will celebrate achievements, review progress, and look ahead to the future. More importantly, we will reaffirm the vital role of media in building peaceful, informed, and inclusive societies. In a world where technology continues to transform how content is created and consumed, truth remains our foundation, trust our greatest asset, and transformation our shared responsibility.

The 63^rd ABU General Assembly is therefore more than an annual meeting. It is a call for broadcasters across the Asia-Pacific to work together in shaping a future where media continues to serve humanity, strengthen democratic values, and build bridges across communities and cultures.

We look forward to welcoming you to Colombo to be part of that conversation: GA2026SriLankaThe Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has launched ABC Your Say, a new nationwide initiative aimed at giving Australians a greater voice in the issues, challenges and opportunities shaping their communities.

Running over eight weeks, the campaign will see ABC News and Audio teams travel to communities across the country to meet directly with audiences, listen to their experiences, and identify the topics that matter most to them. The insights gathered will help inform ABC’s journalism and editorial coverage, ensuring local perspectives are reflected in stories of national significance.

As part of the initiative, Australians are also invited to contribute their views through ABC’s digital platforms, creating additional opportunities for audiences to participate in conversations about the future of their communities. By combining on-the-ground engagement with audience participation, ABC aims to strengthen its connection with communities while reinforcing its role as Australia’s national public broadcaster.

The initiative underscores ABC’s ongoing commitment to trusted, community-focused journalism by placing audience voices at the centre of its reporting and continuing to deliver content that is relevant, inclusive and representative of Australians across the country.