David Walmsley elected President of World Editors Forum

Walmsley Appointed President of World Editors Forum, Ushering in a New Era for Global Journalism

David Walmsley, Editor-in-Chief of The Globe and Mail, has been appointed President of the World Editors Forum (WEF), taking over from Martha Ramos, Chief Editorial Officer at Organización Editorial Mexicana (OEM), who led the Forum with distinction for the past three years.

Ramos will remain an integral part of WEF’s leadership as Deputy President, ensuring continuity and support during what both leaders acknowledge is a transformative period for global journalism.

“It is an honour to take on the presidency of the World Editors Forum at this turning point in history,” Walmsley said. “Journalism has arguably never been more essential—or more under threat.”

A globally respected newsroom leader, Walmsley is known not only for his editorial excellence but also for pioneering initiatives that spotlight journalism’s societal value. He created World News Day, uniting over 800 news organisations worldwide to celebrate journalism’s impact, and co-developed the Toronto Moral Injury Scale for Journalists, the first tool of its kind to address the psychological toll of covering trauma and conflict.

His contributions also extend to the screen, producing acclaimed documentaries like Nike’s Big Bet and Shooting War, and continuing deep-dive investigations such as the long-standing probe into the 1994 RAF Chinook crash in Scotland.

Outgoing President Martha Ramos reflected on her term:

“These past two years have revealed the increasing complexity of our profession… From AI disruption to disinformation warfare, the threats are growing. But so is our resolve. It has been an absolute privilege to serve.”

The World Editors Forum, part of WAN-IFRA (World Association of News Publishers), remains the world’s leading network of chief and senior editors, championing press freedom, newsroom innovation, and the future of quality journalism for over 25 years.

READ MORE: WAN-IFRA Congress 2025: World’s leading media minds to gather in Krakow to master Journalism’s New Playbook

As Walmsley steps into this crucial role, the global editorial community looks to the future with resilience, collaboration, and purpose at the core.

MediaBites congratulates David Walmsley on his appointment as President of the World Editors Forum (WEF). We wish him every success as he takes on this vital role at a pivotal time for global journalism.

We also extend our deep appreciation to Martha Ramos for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to press freedom during her tenure as WEF President.