A press conference is a meeting organized for the purposes of distributing information to the media and answering questions from reporters. It typically involves one or more speakers who will address the audience and the press, and is often followed by a question and answer session. The term is typically used in the context of professional journalism, though press conferences can be held by private individuals or groups as well. In Hebrew, a press conference is called ויכוח עיתונאי (vikhukh itonai), while in French it is known as conférence de presse, and in German as Pressekonferenz. Press conferences can be used to announce a significant news event, policy, or organizational change, and are often held by politicians, business leaders, and other public figures. They provide an opportunity for the speaker to present their message directly to the media and the public, and for journalists to ask questions and clarify information. The format and structure of a press conference can vary, but it typically includes prepared statements, followed by an open forum for questions.