The 63rd ABU General Assembly and Associated Meetings brought together the broadcasting community in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 30 October to 3 November 2026, for five days of discussions, collaboration, recognition and cultural exchange.

Hosted by MTV Sri Lanka at Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams, under the theme “Media for Peace and Humanity: Truth, Trust, and Transformation,” GA2026 provided a platform for broadcasters, industry leaders and media professionals to examine the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of broadcasting.

The gathering marked a significant milestone as Sri Lanka hosted the ABU General Assembly for the first time, with a private broadcaster serving as host for the first time in the event’s history.

The official Opening Ceremony on 1 November was attended by H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, alongside distinguished guests and broadcasting representatives. Cultural performances celebrating Sri Lanka’s heritage complemented messages highlighting the importance of responsible journalism, public trust and media’s contribution to peace and humanity.

The Technical, Programme and Sports Committee meetings provided opportunities for members to exchange knowledge, review industry developments and strengthen cooperation.

Technology discussions explored artificial intelligence, broadcasting infrastructure, spectrum management and evolving production practices. The Programme Committee examined AI-assisted content creation, digital storytelling, vertical video and microdramas, while sports broadcasting discussions addressed escalating rights costs, streaming competition, audience engagement and the continuing importance of human expertise alongside AI.

The Broadcasting for All Forum placed accessibility, diversity and representation at the centre of discussions. Among its memorable contributions was NHK Japan journalist Makoto Sugita’s experience advancing accessible election coverage for persons with disabilities. Discussions also highlighted the importance of respectful and meaningful representation of women in media.

On 2 November, the Media Leaders’ Forum, Super Panel and professional discussions brought senior industry voices together to examine public media’s relevance, editorial independence, financial sustainability and the responsibility of journalism in building trust and encouraging social cohesion. Responsible AI adoption, content authenticity and regional media cooperation were also key areas of focus.

A significant development during GA2026 was the election of the ABU’s new leadership. Mr Yamana Hiroo, Executive Vice President of NHK Japan, was elected ABU President, while Mr Chevaan Daniel, Group Director of Capital Maharaja Group/Maharaja Media Network, Sri Lanka, was elected Vice-President. Mr Daniel’s appointment marked a historic milestone as the first Sri Lankan to hold the position in the Union’s 63-year history.

The Assembly also witnessed the ceremonial handover of the ABU flag from MTV Channel, Sri Lanka, host of ABU GA2026, to RTPRC, host of the 64th ABU General Assembly (ABU GA2027), with Shanghai Media Group (SMG) serving as an organiser. The next General Assembly will take place in Shanghai, China, in 2027.

GA2026 also celebrated outstanding achievements across the broadcasting industry.

The ABU Engineering Awards 2026 recognised individuals and organisations whose contributions to broadcast technology, engineering and innovation continue to advance professional standards and technical excellence.

View the complete list of ABU Engineering Awards 2026 winners

Meanwhile, the ABU Prizes 2026 Gala on 1 November honoured exceptional achievements in radio, television and digital media, celebrating the creativity, dedication and storytelling talent of broadcasters across the Asia-Pacific. The awards recognised outstanding productions and the teams behind content that informs, educates and connects audiences.

View the complete list of ABU Prizes 2026 winners and commended entries

Beyond the conference halls, the 15th ABU Song Festival, held on 2 November at Stein Studios in Ratmalana, brought together performers representing ten Asia-Pacific nations in a celebration of music, culture and regional diversity.

The five-day gathering concluded on 3 November with an excursion to historic Galle Fort and Cinnamon Bentota Beach, offering delegates an opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s heritage, hospitality and coastal beauty while strengthening friendships and professional connections beyond the formal programme.

Throughout GA2026, the importance of collaboration remained a common thread. From technological transformation and creative innovation to inclusive broadcasting and public service, the discussions reinforced the value of learning from one another and working together to address shared challenges.

As delegates departed Colombo, the General Assembly served as a reminder that the ABU’s strength lies not only in the expertise of its members, but also in the relationships, partnerships and shared commitment that unite the broadcasting community.

As we bid farewell to Colombo, we look ahead to the 64th ABU General Assembly in Shanghai, China, in 2027, where new opportunities, stronger partnerships and the enduring spirit of Unity in Diversity will bring our broadcasting community together once again.

Unity in Diversity. Because our differences make us unique, but our collective purpose makes us unstoppable.

See you in Shanghai for the ABU GA2027