Experts at ‘Trends’ Forum: Communication Essential for Governance, Call for Future Research Investment

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

At the 13th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024), ‘Trends Research and Advisory’ organized two pivotal seminars focusing on the evolving landscape of government communication. These sessions underscored that effective communication is fundamental to governance and urged governments to harness future research to refine their communication strategies.

Beyond the Virtual World: Evolving Government Communication

The first seminar, titled “Government Communication: Beyond the Virtual World and the New Wave of Personal Interaction,” addressed the transformative nature of government communication. The discussion featured Dr. Moez Moqaddem, former Chief of Staff to the Tunisian Prime Minister and Vice President of Government Affairs and Political Information for Francophone countries; Dr. Galal Abdullah Hatem, Director of Umm Al Quwain University; and Mona Bou Samra, Director of Dubai Media Academy. Abrar Al Ali, a researcher and opinion polling specialist at ‘Trends Research and Advisory,’ moderated the session.

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Dr. Moez Moqaddem explored the evolution of communication strategies and emphasized the necessity for governments to adapt to these changes. He highlighted how citizens have transitioned from merely seeking services to becoming active partners in governance. Moqaddem advocated for governments to effectively market their achievements and invest in digital infrastructure to enhance public administration and communication.

Dr. Galal Hatem stressed the importance of government communication in fostering transparency, cooperation, and responsiveness. He cited Sharjah, UAE, as an exemplary model of effective communication, noting the shift from one-way dissemination to a more interactive and participatory approach. Hatem highlighted the role of strategic information dissemination and public awareness campaigns in driving governmental influence and progress.

Mona Bou Samra illustrated how government communication acts as a success metric, with a notable emphasis on the COVID-19 pandemic as a case in point. She noted the critical role of communication in combating misinformation and providing reassurance to the public. Bou Samra also underscored the forum’s theme of adapting communication strategies to a rapidly evolving world.

Harnessing Research for Future Communication

The second seminar, “Scientific Research: From Studying the Reality of Government Communication to Building its Future,” delved into how scientific research can enhance government communication. The panel included Dr. Osama Elgohary, Assistant to the Egyptian Prime Minister and Head of the Information and Decision Support Centre; Dr. João Bosco Monte, President of the Brazil-Africa Institute; Sharif Bendary, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at Moharram & Partners; Dr. Noura Alkarbi, Chair of the Research Outreach Department at the University of Sharjah; Dr. Soumaya Abdellatif, Head of the Sociology Department at Ajman University; and Sultan Majed Al Ali, Director of the Global Barometer Department at Trends. Ali Abdullah Al Ali, researcher and Director of Trends Dubai, moderated the session.

Dr. Osama Elgohary discussed the evolving role of think tanks in shaping public opinion and influencing decisions. He advocated for research centers to provide interactive solutions that help clarify public sentiment and decision impacts, drawing on his experience with Egypt's Information and Decision Support Centre.

Professor João Bosco Monte emphasized the need for collaboration between research centers and governments to develop informed communication strategies. He highlighted how data-driven research can support sound decision-making.

Sharif Bendary stressed that transparency is crucial for effective communication, explaining that it is a key demand from citizens. He noted the importance of continuous information updates and evaluations, a role that research centers can fulfill.

Dr. Noura Alkarbi highlighted the value of expanding societal knowledge and involving academics in policy development to improve government services. She called for more applied research on communication.

Dr. Soumaya Abdellatif emphasized the need to bridge the gap between research centers and government bodies to formulate effective public policies related to communication.

Sultan Majed Al Ali underscored the importance of opinion polls in guiding government decisions, particularly in an era of widespread misinformation. He advocated for clear and accurate communication supported by scientific research.

The seminars at IGCF 2024 collectively emphasized the importance of communication in governance and the critical role of research in enhancing this field. The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to leveraging future research to navigate the complexities of modern governance and communication.

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