TERRA Asia has issued a stark warning to Asian journalists, emphasizing the critical need to fact-check and verify any content generated by Artificial Intelligence before publication.
The warning came during the second day of the organization’s online training, “AI and Digital Innovations for Impactful, Evidence-driven Environmental Journalism,” held virtually from Jakarta on November 4.
Terra Asia reminded journalists that the evolving capability of AI to create stories that appear legitimate is a significant threat to credibility.
When utilizing AI as a source or tool, reporters must prioritize thorough review and verification, and above all, rely on editorial judgment, not AI.
“Verifying stories is one way to maintain the trust of our readers,” Robert Bourgoing of Canal France International (CFI), said during the seminar.
The training series, however, is designed to help media professionals regain control of their digital environment and effectively harness advanced AI tools and techniques.
Despite the focus on utilizing AI, the event also highlighted underlying concerns about the technology’s impact on employment. A speaker acknowledged the widespread worry: “Many will lose their jobs because AI will take over roles that journalists currently fill.”
To counter this threat, Terra Asia pointed out the importance of human oversight.
“Don’t let machines replace journalists in the future,” Bourgoing advised.
The comprehensive 10-day training, which also functions as a National Environment Awareness Seminar, targets a wide range of participants, including journalists, media practitioners, information officers, and media development organizations.
Over a hundred participants from various Asian countries, including the Philippines, are involved in the program. It began on October 21, and is scheduled to conclude in May next year.
The training is implemented by Canal France International (CFI), a French media development agency, and is promoted by Terra Asia in cooperation with the Center for Community Journalism and Development (CCJD) and the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD), with support from the French government.
