Applications are now open for the “Reaching Marginalized Communities” Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Conference 2026, a unique gathering organized by DW Akademie in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The conference is designed to create an inclusive space where marginalized and underserved communities can share their experiences, discuss pressing media-related challenges, and contribute to conversations that influence more equitable access to information.

Scheduled to take place on Sunday, 25 October 2026, this half-day conference will bring together participants from across Cambodia, particularly individuals representing communities that are often excluded from mainstream discussions. With a special focus on young people, the event aims to empower participants through dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaborative learning on critical media and information literacy issues.

One of the major highlights of the conference is that travel expenses for participants coming from outside Phnom Penh will be fully covered, making it easier for individuals from rural and remote areas to attend.

The event will be conducted in both English and Khmer, with simultaneous interpretation available to ensure that language is not a barrier to meaningful participation.

About the Reaching Marginalized Communities MIL Conference

The Reaching Marginalized Communities Media and Information Literacy Conference is an initiative by DW Akademie that seeks to strengthen inclusive participation in discussions surrounding media, digital communication, and access to reliable information.

As technology rapidly transforms the way societies communicate, marginalized populations often face additional barriers to accessing trustworthy information, expressing themselves freely, and protecting themselves from misinformation and online threats.

This conference aims to bridge those gaps by creating a safe and inclusive environment where participants can:

• Share experiences from their communities.
• Discuss challenges affecting marginalized populations.
• Learn from experts and peers.
• Exchange ideas for improving media and information literacy.
• Build networks with organizations and community representatives.
• Promote inclusive digital participation.

Conference Date and Venue

• Event Date: Sunday, 25 October 2026
• Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Duration: Half-day conference

Conference Themes

Participants will explore several important topics related to media and information literacy, including:

• Freedom of expression
• Access to reliable information
• Combating misinformation and disinformation
• Hate speech and online discrimination
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Online scams and digital safety
• Media literacy education
• Digital inclusion
• Community participation in media
• Responsible use of online platforms

These discussions will help participants understand how media affects their communities while equipping them with practical knowledge to navigate today’s digital environment.

Communities the Conference Seeks to Engage

DW Akademie is particularly encouraging participation from representatives of marginalized and underserved populations, including:

• Ethnic minority communities
• Indigenous communities
• Rural communities
• Remote communities
• Fishing communities
• Religious minorities
• Refugees
• Displaced persons
• Returnees
• Persons with disabilities
• LGBTQ+ communities
• Garment workers
• Factory workers
• People living in poverty
• Individuals living with mental health conditions
• Other underserved populations

The conference also welcomes organizations and community leaders working closely with these groups.

Special Focus on Youth

Young people remain one of the primary focus groups for this conference.

Youth representatives are encouraged to actively contribute to discussions, share community experiences, and participate in building more inclusive media environments.

Applicants aged 15–35 years are specifically recognized within the application form.

Opportunity to Deliver a Community Presentation

Participants who wish to contribute beyond attending discussions may volunteer to give a 10–15 minute presentation during the conference.

This presentation provides an opportunity to:

• Introduce your community.
• Explain the challenges your community faces.
• Share successful initiatives.
• Discuss media and information literacy needs.
• Highlight opportunities for collaboration.
• Raise awareness about underserved populations.

Applicants can indicate their interest in presenting during the application process.

Conference Languages

To ensure broad participation, the conference will be conducted in:

• English
• Khmer

Simultaneous interpretation will be provided throughout the event.

Travel Support

One of the most significant benefits offered by DW Akademie is financial support for participants traveling from outside Phnom Penh.

Eligible participants living in other provinces of Cambodia will have their travel expenses covered, helping reduce financial barriers to participation.

What Applicants Will Be Asked During Registration

The application form requests information including:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Phone number
• Email address
• Province or current location in Cambodia
• Community or organization represented
• Position within the organization or community
• Whether the applicant belongs to specific demographic groups
• Whether the applicant wishes to deliver a short presentation
• Description of the represented community or NGO

Applicants should complete the form as accurately as possible.

DW Akademie states that all submitted information will be treated confidentially.

Benefits of Participating

Selected participants will have the opportunity to:

• Participate in a national media and information literacy conference.
• Engage with representatives from diverse marginalized communities.
• Exchange ideas with civil society organizations and community leaders.
• Learn practical approaches to addressing misinformation and digital challenges.
• Strengthen understanding of AI and digital media.
• Build valuable professional and community networks.
• Increase awareness of freedom of expression and access to information.
• Present their community’s work and challenges (optional).
• Receive travel support if traveling from outside Phnom Penh.
• Participate in bilingual discussions through English-Khmer interpretation.

Why This Conference Matters

Media and information literacy has become increasingly important as digital platforms continue to shape public discourse worldwide.

Marginalized communities frequently face obstacles including limited access to credible information, online discrimination, misinformation, hate speech, and digital exclusion.

This conference provides a platform where these communities can voice their concerns, share solutions, and collectively strengthen their capacity to engage safely and effectively in today’s information landscape.

By centering the experiences of underserved populations, DW Akademie aims to encourage more inclusive media systems that leave no community behind.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the official application form by providing all requested information.

Applicants who would like to give a presentation should indicate their interest in the application form and prepare a presentation lasting between 10 and 15 minutes.

All personal information submitted through the application will be handled confidentially by the organizers.

APPLY HERE.

Application Deadline

Deadline: Not specified

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible.

CLICK HERE for more information.

CONCLUSION.

The Reaching Marginalized Communities Media and Information Literacy Conference 2026 represents an important opportunity for individuals, youth leaders, civil society organizations, and representatives of marginalized communities across Cambodia to engage in meaningful conversations about media, digital inclusion, and equitable access to information.

By bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, the conference seeks to strengthen collaboration, amplify underrepresented voices, and promote more inclusive approaches to media and information literacy. With travel support available for participants outside Phnom Penh, bilingual interpretation, and opportunities to present community experiences, the event offers an accessible platform for learning, networking, and advocacy.

Individuals who are passionate about empowering marginalized communities and advancing media literacy are encouraged to apply and become part of this impactful initiative.

Visit HERE for more OFY conference opportunities.