Countering fake news & disinformation prime responsibility of youth, Experts
ISLAMABAD, May 23 (SABAH): A panel discussion was held at the Islamic International University, Islamabad (IIUI) to explore the impact of fake news and disinformation on the upcoming General Election in Pakistan, and the role that journalism can play in promoting fair and accurate reporting.
The distinguished speakers, Digital Media Expert Waqas Naeem, Ms. Zil-e-Huma Director Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), Director Communications and Outreach NACTA, Dr. Munir Ahmed, Ms. Shazia Mehboob, senior Journalist and Editor The PenPK.com were among the speakers. A massive strength of students of IIUI from Social Sciences and Mass Communication departments attended the event.
While director at Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Ms. Zil e Huma said that as a responsible journalist it is the duty of the journalists to seek facts and provide authentic information to the public to reduce the risk of spreading fake news and misinformation.
Director communications and outreach NACTA, Dr. Munir Ahmed remarked, that in our country unfortunately, fake news, disinformation and misinformation created the culture of intolerance in the society which is fueling further to religious, political, social extremism. So it very important to see that this is very important to see who give the importance to fake news, disinformation and misinformation. This is the youth of the country who do watch, comments, give likes share them further to others as well and make fake news, misinformation, disinformation successful. So countering fake news, misinformation and disinformation is the prime responsibility if the youth.
Digital Media Expert, Digital Media Expert said that it is important for the social media platforms providers to continue their efforts to understand the risks of cascading of fake news and influence at the society at large. Hence implementation of the fact checking-tools is significant in reducing the spread of fake news, building of trust and confident in the society. Social Media platforms provider should ensure that there is continues monitoring of online activates triggered by spread of fake news.
“A senior journalist and editor The PenPK.com Ms. Shazia Mehboob remarked that this is an even more challenging problem where individuals with limited digital literacy skills are joining online platform in increasing numbers. So educational interventions focusing on increasing the ability of individuals to identify fake news should be increased” to counter this complex issue.
The distinguished speakers of the event showed serious concerns on the rising trend of fake news and urged government to take immediate steps to tackle this complex issue. Speakers also emphasized that efforts should also be made to counter misinformation and fake news through educational interventions.
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