Press Freedom Under Fire: UN special rapporteur Irene Khan warns freedom of expression is being squeezed as states weaponize speech laws and digital access, citing the case of detained Philippine journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio. Local Journalism Funding: Germany’s top media regulator Thorsten Schmiege says big digital platforms should pay a “diversity contribution” to protect local journalism, calling it democratic infrastructure. UK Local News Struggles: Ipsos iris data shows UK local newsbrands are losing audience and minutes, with Reach sites among the worst hit after Google algorithm changes. Media-Security Partnership: Nigeria’s NUJ honored DSS DG Adeola Ajayi for strengthening media-security cooperation, framing it as a path to stability and safer reporting. Journalist Safety in Conflict Zones: Al Jazeera condemned the killing of cameraman Ahmed Wishah in Gaza, rejecting Israeli claims and calling for accountability. Digital Wellbeing Debate: UK youth group Woodcraft Folk urges a rethink of under-16 social media bans, arguing for protections beyond age cut-offs. On-Platform Payments: Roundtable launched real-time onchain ad revenue payouts to publishers via USDC and Coinbase rails, aiming to replace slow settlement cycles. Regional Migration Reporting: Eastern African media leaders backed the Mombasa Statement for responsible, fact-based migration coverage to counter misinformation and trafficking.