New Leader Named for World Editors Forum

David Walmsley has been appointed President of the World Editors Forum, succeeding Martha Ramos, Chief Editorial Officer of Organización Editorial Mexicana (OEM). Ramos, who led the Forum with distinction for three years, will transition to the role of Deputy President, providing support to Walmsley as the organization navigates a critical period for journalism globally.

Walmsley expressed his honor at assuming the presidency, acknowledging the unprecedented challenges and vital importance of journalism today. “Journalism has arguably never been more essential—or more under threat,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a strengthened global network to defend the profession and highlight its value.

A veteran journalist and innovator, Walmsley currently holds a position at The Globe and Mail and is the creator of World News Day, a collaborative initiative involving over 800 news organizations worldwide. He also co-created the Toronto Moral Injury Scale for Journalists, a tool designed to address the psychological impact of covering traumatic events. His commitment extends to producing documentaries like Nike’s Big Bet and Shooting War, showcasing impactful journalistic narratives. He further contributes through his roles as a trustee of the Arthur F. Burns Fellowship and a member of the steering committee for the Sir Harold Evans Fellowship for Investigative Journalism, alongside continuing his long-term investigation into the 1994 RAF Chinook helicopter crash.

Outgoing President Ramos reflected on the increasing pressures facing the industry during her tenure. She highlighted the impact of the pandemic, the rise of social media, the disruption caused by artificial intelligence, and the proliferation of disinformation campaigns, often fueled by powerful interests. “Only within the World Editors Forum does one truly grasp the full scale of these threats across every corner of the globe,” she noted.

The World Editors Forum, a key component of WAN-IFRA (the World Association of News Publishers), serves as the leading global network for editors, dedicated to defending press freedom, bolstering newsroom leadership, and advancing journalism worldwide.

This leadership transition arrives at a particularly crucial moment. The erosion of public trust in media, coupled with the economic instability facing many news organizations, presents a formidable challenge. Walmsley’s background, particularly his focus on the psychological well-being of journalists and his commitment to investigative reporting, suggests a recognition of the multifaceted nature of these threats. While technological disruption presents opportunities, the weaponization of information and the deliberate undermining of journalistic integrity demand a proactive and unified response. The Forum’s continued relevance hinges on its ability to not only advocate for press freedom but also to equip newsrooms with the tools and resources necessary to navigate this complex landscape and rebuild public confidence.