Science journalism finds its true impact in translating evidence-based research into public discourse and policy reform. A persistent obstacle in the field has been algorithmic inertia, where coverage is optimized for immediate clicks rather than long-term influence. The framework developed by The Conversation Spain offers a concrete blueprint for turning science reporting into legislative change.
At Media Party Barcelona, taking place September 7–8 at CaixaForum, Elena Sanz will take the stage to unpack this methodology. As the outlet’s Editorial Director, her keynote explores how newsrooms can move past audience engagement metrics to drive tangible social impact.
About Elena Sanz
Elena Sanz is a science journalist and editor specializing in science, health, and technology. In over 20 years in the field, she has worked with media outlets such as MUY Interesante, El País, El Mundo, La Sexta, and Heraldo de Aragón, as well as with publishing houses like Paidós and McGraw-Hill.
Her journalistic work has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including two Boehringer Ingelheim Awards for Journalism in Medicine, the Casa de las Ciencias Award for ‘Best Journalistic Article,’ and the Accenture Technology Award, among others. She is currently the Editorial Director of The Conversation Spain, the outreach platform connecting those who know with those who want to know.
She is the author of the books ‘La ciencia del chup chup’ (Editorial Crítica) and ‘Memorias de la Tierra’ (Shackleton Books). She also has extensive experience teaching courses and moderating panels and events on science communication.
Keynote at Media Party
From articles to laws: how science journalism can overcome the inertia of algorithms and transform into public policy
ES: Del artículo a la ley: cómo el periodismo científico puede vencer la inercia de los algoritmos y transformarse en políticas públicas
Journalism usually measures impact in clicks; The Conversation España set out to measure it in social change.
Through its ‘Bienestar Digital y Menores’ project — 70+ articles by psychologists, neuroscientists and educators, taken off the page and into 12 events across Spain — the evidence fed directly into debate on Spain’s Law for the Protection of Minors in Digital Environments.
Elena shares how this methodology becomes a replicable model for any newsroom that wants to stop being a spectator and start being an actor for social change.
- Language: Spanish
- Themes: Media Business Models · Innovation in Narrative Formats · Audience Development
Reclaiming Journalistic Purpose
Building newsroom frameworks that translate rigorous reporting into legislative change is essential for media organizations aiming to demonstrate authentic public value. Elena’s session offers a concrete blueprint for journalists, editors, and media leaders looking to move beyond traffic metrics.
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn how your newsroom can help shape public policy and drive meaningful social change. Secure your tickets for Media Party Barcelona today!
