IGCF 2024: Officials Urge Strategic Media Regulation to Balance Transparency and Security

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

At the ongoing International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) 2024, held at Expo Center Sharjah, the issue of misinformation in the digital age took center stage. In a session titled "The Information Wars and the Perils of Communication Globalisation", organized in collaboration with du – Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company, leading UAE and international experts gathered to address the growing challenges posed by misinformation and the complexities of globalized communication in the digital era.

The panel consisted of Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Director-General of the UAE’s National Media Office; Prof. Hamid Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah; Helen McElhinney, Executive Director of CDAC Network, a global alliance focused on ensuring the safe and reliable dissemination of information during crises; and Eng. Adnan Al Rais, Assistant Director-General for Space Operations and Exploration at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC). The session was moderated by Emirati writer Hassan Bin Thalith.

Balancing National Security and Freedom of Expression

Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi highlighted the fine balance that governments must strike between safeguarding national security and maintaining freedom of expression, especially on social media platforms. He emphasized that while governments must protect the public from harmful content, it is equally important to maintain transparency in media communications.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Al Kaabi pointed to the UAE's successful handling of communication during the COVID-19 pandemic as a prime example of the importance of accurate information. “The UAE prioritized community protection by ensuring timely and accurate information during the pandemic. We have to keep this approach in place and further it,” he explained. He also advocated for integrating media literacy into school curriculums, stating that teaching young people to critically evaluate the information they encounter online is essential for creating a well-informed public.

Role of Academic Institutions in Combating Misinformation

University of Sharjah Chancellor Prof. Hamid Al Naimiy stressed the role that educational institutions must play in the fight against misinformation, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies like ChatGPT. He noted that misinformation surged significantly in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, and that the problem has only grown as AI technology advances, presenting new challenges such as the spread of deepfakes.

Al Naimiy called on universities to set clear policies regarding the use of AI by students and faculty while also stressing the need to develop students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills. “In today’s academic environment, educators are not just passing on information but are creating comprehensive learning environments to prepare students for a world where misinformation is rampant,” he added.

Space Technology’s Role in Providing Accurate Information

Eng. Adnan Al Rais of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) discussed how space technology can combat misinformation by providing accurate data, particularly during crises. He explained that satellites are invaluable in delivering critical, unfiltered information from otherwise inaccessible regions, which is essential for combating false narratives during disasters and emergencies.

Al Rais highlighted the UAE’s space achievements, including the KhalifaSat project, the first satellite built entirely by Emiratis. He noted that the data collected by UAE satellites contributes to global disaster management efforts, offering clear and accurate information that helps counter misinformation.

The Risks of Social Media Misinformation in Humanitarian Efforts

Helen McElhinney, representing the CDAC Network, focused on the negative impact that misinformation can have in humanitarian contexts. She explained that while social media platforms have democratized access to information, they have also enabled the spread of disinformation, particularly during humanitarian crises. McElhinney gave examples of how misinformation can impede relief efforts by confusing affected populations, making it difficult for them to access life-saving information.

She also expressed concern about government measures that limit social media access, such as the Brazilian Supreme Court’s recent decision to block X (formerly known as Twitter). While these measures may curb disinformation, McElhinney argued that they could also silence the voices of those who rely on such platforms to communicate, especially during crises.

Collective Efforts to Tackle Misinformation

The session concluded with a consensus on the need for a collaborative, multi-faceted approach to tackle the global challenges of misinformation. The panellists called for stronger partnerships between governments, academic institutions, and the technology sector to safeguard the integrity of public communication. They also emphasized the need for continuous efforts to protect vulnerable populations, especially in times of crisis, from the harmful effects of unverified information circulating in the digital space.

The discussions at IGCF 2024 highlight the increasing importance of addressing misinformation in a world that is becoming more interconnected and reliant on digital communication. By focusing on strategic regulation, media literacy, and technological innovations like space-based data, the UAE and global leaders aim to create a more secure and informed global communications landscape.

#trending #latest #IGCF2024 #Misinformation #DigitalCommunication #MediaRegulation #AIandEducation #SocialMediaRisks #GlobalCooperation #CrisisCommunication #SpaceTechnology #PublicCommunication #MediaLiteracy #headlines #topstories #globalUpdate #dxbnewsnetwork #dxbnews #dxbdnn #dxbnewsnetworkdnn #bestnewschanneldubai #bestnewschannelUAE #bestnewschannelabudhabi #bestnewschannelajman #bestnewschannelofdubai #popularnewschanneldubai

Simran clinches bronze in the Women's 200m T12 at Paris 2024...Read More.

Discover 8 underrated US spots for a perfect fall getaway...Read More.