Final declaration SIGNIS Congress, Seoul 2022

Final statement

We, the delegates of SIGNIS, the World Catholic Association for Communication, coming from 34 countries, meet at Sogang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, from August 14 to 18, 2022.

We have discussed and deliberated on the topic 'Peace in the Digital World.

As we leave this Congress with new knowledge, awareness and resolutions, we find much to reflect on.

We live in a world where the 'digital divide' widens the gap between rich and poor, leading to unequal access to the fruits of the digital revolution.

We realize that as people become hyperconnected, they are also challenged by socioeconomic, cultural, political, religious, spiritual, and ecological disconnections, leading to isolation, confusion, and hopelessness.

Online gaming, addiction to pornography, overexposure to violence, and content of a divisive nature in the media lead to destructive behaviors.

We recognize the devastating effects of fake news in contemporary society, such as communal clashes between people. Vulnerable groups in society are often the main victims of fake news.

We realize that an equitable digital access and infrastructure strategy can develop a “resilient environment” and support “integral human development”.

We need to move from individual engagement to community building.

As Pope Francis says, 'God's style is closeness, compassion and tenderness'.

We need to weave the web with the truth and beauty of faith and hope. The technology has to be imbued with ethics and consideration.

We believe that it is possible to build a new society by creating awareness that inspires us to work together in peace with people of different cultures, beliefs, religions and ideologies.

We affirm a genuine interest in marginalized people and are committed to communicating true and meaningful information to advance their struggles.

We urge media professionals and citizens to take action to protect the human rights of civilians trapped in war and conflict zones. Media professionals are especially encouraged not only to report on events, but also to be actively involved in supporting war victims and working on conflict resolution.

By doing so, we can pass on the legacy of peace to the next generation.

We need to cultivate the journalistic values of advocating for justice, holding authorities accountable, and establishing common ground.

Through well-researched context and nuanced explanation, in order to provide a guiding light for our readers, viewers, and listeners.

We are encouraged by the stories of young people from around the world about building peace. By listening to these stories of young people involved in media activities, we play their vital role in building communities and promoting peace through modern technologies and creative methodologies.

We extend an open invitation to the youth of the world to join us in peacebuilding processes.

We feel that we left this Congress spiritually and professionally enriched. We believe that through the renewing power of the Holy Spirit we can achieve peace in the digital world.

SIGNIS World Congress, Seoul,

August 18, 2022.