Associated Press (AP) executive editor Julie Pace warned on Web Summit that artificial intelligence (IA) can further drive journalists away from the public, despite opening up new possibilities for access to information.
© Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile for Web Summit via Getty Images
10/11/2026
by
Lusa
A executive editor of Associated Press (AP), Julie Pace, today warned on Web Summit that artificial intelligence (IA) opens up new possibilities for access to information, but can further distance journalists from the public.
In the panel “AI: your new news editor?” Julie Pace wondered how journalists can – when there are several layers between those on the ground or in the newsroom and those who consume their work – make sure they continue to understand what really matters to the public.
“ I think that is something we must keep in the foreground, because we want to ensure that we continue to respond to real people who ultimately are the recipients of our journalism”, he said.
The head of the U.S. news agency considered that at a time when anyone can create content and share information in real time, journalists must reflect on the value they really offer.
“ Why should someone stop when they're going through TikTok or Instagram? Why should they stop at our content?” he questioned.
On the same panel, the executive chairman of the French group Le Monde, Louis Dreyfus, acknowledged that, on social media, users travel through Instagram and X without reading the texts.
Dreyfus still argued that the media have no choice and need to be present on these platforms.
“ We need to be on the main stage of this generation [...], we need to publish or be cited on this stage ", said.
According to the manager, the goal is that, after a few months or years, these users return to the application of the newspaper.
Dreyfus also defended partnerships with platforms to ensure that media are referenced, receive payment and see some traffic routed to their websites.
Web Summit runs until Thursday, at the Lisbon International Fair and Meo Arena.
The event takes place since 2016 in Lisbon, this being its tenth edition, and should continue until 2028. Paddy Cosgrave did not advance details on whether or not Web Summit will remain in the capital of Portugal after the end of the contract.