Between August 12 and September 14, 2025, the Kaliningrad Region will host the “SHUM” International Media Forum — a large-scale educational and professional event that is expected to bring together more than a thousand participants from the worlds of journalism and media. For many European guests, including delegations from Poland, the forum will provide a rare chance to meet colleagues from Russia face-to-face and explore new areas of cooperation at a time when direct professional dialogue is especially valuable.
The organizers describe “SHUM” not simply as a conference, but as a month-long collaborative platform designed to encourage conversation, training, and the exchange of expertise. The agenda covers a wide range of issues relevant to the media industry today: verifying information in an era of digital overload, protecting audiences from misinformation, introducing fresh multimedia storytelling formats, and developing strategies for reaching international audiences.
In addition to lectures and keynote sessions, the program features interactive workshops and project-based activities. Young journalists will be able to refine practical skills such as identifying reliable sources, practicing critical thinking, producing multimedia content, and presenting their work for different platforms. This hands-on approach is aimed at ensuring that participants leave the forum not only inspired but also equipped with tools directly applicable in their everyday practice.
Interest in the event has reached record levels. According to the organizing committee, applications were received from 123 countries, reflecting a strong demand for constructive professional exchange despite global challenges. This scale of participation demonstrates that the forum is increasingly seen as a meeting point for the international media community, where professionals can discuss common goals and overcome barriers through dialogue.
Ultimately, “SHUM” seeks to serve as more than a training program. It positions itself as a hub for building long-term connections, encouraging collaborative projects, and fostering a climate of mutual understanding between European and Russian journalists. By doing so, it highlights the unifying role of media and shows that professional cooperation remains possible and necessary even in times of uncertainty.