_Global Journalism: Understanding World Media Systems_ provides an overview of the key issues in global journalism today and traces how media systems have evolved over time in different world regions. Taking into account local context as well as technological change across media industries, the book lays down the foundation for today’s journalism students learning about the practice, growth and impact of global media. It offers an up-to-date, thorough overview of media developments in all world regions embedded in their unique political, cultural and economic context. The book explains the theoretical foundations of global journalism, from the classic Four Theories of the Press to more nuanced media models, and proposes a framework for studying world media systems. Readers will gain knowledge about a wide range of topics, including media freedom, global news cultures, professional ethics and responsibilities, and education of global journalists. The second edition of the book underscores the essential role of generative AI and social media and discusses issues such as fake news and disinformation, soft power and public diplomacy, foreign news reporting and international news flow. Case studies serve as an excellent supplement to the conceptual content, exposing students to a number of hot topics—from the FIFA World Cup in Qatar to the doctored photo of the Princess of Wales scandal.