Naples: Vatican Radio received special recognition during the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) News Assembly for its pivotal role in providing authoritative and timely coverage of the recent papal transition, spanning from the passing of Pope Francis to the election of Pope Leo XIV. The summit, hosted by Italy’s national public broadcaster RAI (Radiotelevisione Italiana), brought together journalists and media executives from across Europe to discuss key challenges and developments in the field of news reporting.
Among the core topics explored were press freedom, the evolving impact of artificial intelligence on journalism, and media coverage of conflicts such as the ongoing war in Gaza. The Assembly also highlighted the resilience of journalists working under difficult and dangerous conditions, exemplified by the remote participation of Italian journalist Sigfrido Ranucci, who had recently faced a targeted intimidation attack. Colleagues from across Europe expressed solidarity and applauded his longstanding contributions to investigative journalism.
A major focus of the summit was a review of EBU’s activities over the past year, particularly within the Radio Group (RANG). The report underscored how collaboration among member stations became especially vital during the papal funeral and the subsequent Conclave. Alessandro Gisotti of Vatican Radio was singled out for providing continuous updates, explanations, and detailed accounts of the unfolding events. The EBU report emphasized that this coordinated sharing of information “ensured timely and reliable coverage for EBU members, highlighting the indispensable role of the group in supporting public service media with accurate information in real time.”
The Assembly also marked the renewal of the EBU News Committee, with Pierre Volet of Swiss Radio and Television elected as its new president. Annual awards recognizing journalistic excellence were presented, with the Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne receiving the 2025 Gunnar Høidahl Award. The award citation praised Suspilne for its “resilience and professionalism demonstrated in extremely difficult circumstances over the three and a half years following the Russian invasion of their country.”
In addition, the Algerian television station EPTV was honored with the Foreign News Award for its coverage of the war in Gaza. The award statement noted that EPTV’s reporting “was essential in helping members report on the dramatic situation on the ground, especially when Israeli authorities blocked access to the territory for international media.”
The EBU News Assembly in Naples reinforced the critical importance of collaboration, professionalism, and adaptability in modern journalism, celebrating institutions like Vatican Radio that provide reliable information during times of global significance.