Abstract
2024 was a tumultuous year that presented a complex global environment intricately tied with significant shifts in how we communicate. The rise of nationalist demagoguery, the unchecked spread of disinformation on digital platforms, the erosion of trust in journalism, and Generative Artificial Intelligence ethics have been the highlights of uncertainty and despair. Yet such an environment also invites introspection, measured critique, and the collaboration of minds to find the path forward. The Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand Communication Association 2024 Conference (AANZCA 2024) was a cautious but resolute step in this direction. Themed 'Pause', AANZCA 2024 invited communication scholars around the world to take a step back and evaluate this moment of global upheaval with discernment and critical re-engagement. This special issue features AANZCA 2024 conference papers that focuses on citizenship and marginalisation, ethical AI usage, social media use in political astroturfing and advocacy, and journalism ethical boundaries.