Fourth Estate

The world’s leading journalists explore tech and news, new audiences and credibility in the age of misinformation.

Marcelly Setúbal, reporter, Globo News, on stage at Web Summit Rio
Marcelly Setúbal
Reporter | Globo News

What’s happening?

As the media continues to evolve, Fourth Estate gathers those at the frontlines to discuss what’s next. We’ll examine the industry across the spectrum – from the stalwarts of traditional media to the figures pioneering the fight for something new.

Your Web Summit Rio ticket gives you access to all masterclasses and roundtables at the event, as well as to talks on Fourth Estate and 15-plus other tracks.

Katie Prescott, Technology Business Editor, The Times, on Centre Stage during day two of Web Summit Rio 2023 at Riocentro in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Laura Bonilla, Editor-in-chief for Latin America, AFP, on Centre Stage during day two of Web Summit Rio 2023 at Riocentro in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Venture Stage during day one of Web Summit Rio 2023 at Riocentro in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Tech and news

From ink and print to the almighty algorithm, where is tech taking us next in the world of news creation and consumption? Dive into some of journalism’s biggest topics, including generative AI, process automation and re-energizing the fourth estate.

Three solid triangles pointing right sitting on top of a solid background.
Reaching new audiences

How can journalists and storytellers ensure that a new generation of digital consumers will read their stories? Is the idea of representation rewriting what makes the news and why? Discover how diversity and inclusion can build audience trust and translate to new revenue streams.

A solid rectangular shape sits diagonally on top of a solid-colored background.
Credibility in an age of misinformation

There has been a global drop in institutional trust, and journalists are on the frontline of the new culture wars and toxic online discourse. How can media organizations win audience trust and provide fact-based news coverage in a fragmented digital landscape?

News monetization

What price are you willing to pay for high quality journalism? There appears to be no easy answer, as news organizations continue to struggle with digital business models and print continues to disappear. Experts explore the best approaches to monetization.

Meet some of our past speakers

Andrew Ross Sorkin
Andrew Ross Sorkin
ColumnistThe New York Times
Kara Swisher
Kara Swisher
Editor-at-largeRecode
David Remnick
David Remnick
EditorThe New Yorker
Nicholas Thompson
Nicholas Thompson
CEOThe Atlantic
Stephanie Mehta
Stephanie Mehta
CEO & Chief Content OfficerMansueto Ventures
Jessica Lessin
Jessica Lessin
Founder & Editor-in-chiefThe Information
Ann Curry
Ann Curry
Journalist
Lauren Williams
Lauren Williams
Founder & Editor-in-chiefCapital B
Sally Buzbee
Sally Buzbee
Executive EditorWashington Post
Chris Best
Chris Best
Co-founder & CEOSubstack

Companies that attend

"Journalism has always benefitted from technology."

Ricardo Costa, Editor-in-chief, Sociedade Independente de Comunicação (SIC), on Fourth Estate Stage during day one of Web Summit 2023 at the Altice Arena in Lisbon

– Ricardo Costa, Editor-in-chief, Sociedade Independente de Comunicação (SIC)

“You don’t lose by being firm and speaking your mind.”

Kara Swisher, Executive Editor, Recode, on Centre Stage during day two of Web Summit

–  Kara Swisher, Editor-at-large, Recode

“Are we making sure our report is actually for the people we are trying to reach?”

Julia Pace, Executive Editor, AP

–  Julia Pace, Executive Editor, AP

Never miss another speaker announcement

You may also be interested in these tracks...

See more
The marketing track

PandaConf is a platform for global CMOs, leading brands, marketing and advertising industry giants, investors, agencies and adtech startups.

See more
The design track

creatiff is a celebration of design in all its forms. From urban landscapes and architecture to app interfaces and brand identities, join us at the intersection of innovation and creativity.

See more
The sustainability track

planet:tech provides a global meeting point to explore technology and the environment. Find out about the economic and social opportunities stemming from sustainability and green tech.

See more
Business that innovates

Corporate Innovation Summit brings together those at the forefront of the biggest companies to confront the major issues facing businesses today.