UAE Journalists Unite With NMO In Combat Against Online Trolls

The UAE Journalists Association (UAEJA) has declared its endorsement of Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed's anti-online-trolling campaign. This initiative, led by the Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO), aims to uphold professional standards, reinforce national values, and combat online trolls, often referred to as "electronic flies," which represent a significant modern challenge.

Fadila Abdullah Al Muaini, Chairperson of the UAE Journalists Association, highlighted the association’s efforts in coordinating with media institutions to support this national campaign. She stated, "This form of trolling is perpetrated by those harbouring malice and resentment towards the success of countries, institutions, and individuals, who use fake accounts to spread misleading information and destructive ideas in an attempt to tarnish achievements and successes."

Al Muaini noted that the association is organising various training courses for young journalists and social media users. These courses aim to equip them with skills to counter harmful ideas and incorrect values spreading on social media. The goal is to safeguard national social peace and security through these educational programmes.

The Chairperson also emphasised that raising awareness among citizens and social media users is crucial. The UAEJA is focused on this through different programmes and events held throughout the year. Awareness is seen as the most effective tool in combating online trolling and misinformation.

The launch of this campaign by the NMO highlights the state’s commitment to enhancing security and promoting stability across the region. It underscores efforts to uphold values of tolerance, combat rumours, and address terrorism and destructive ideas propagated by malicious entities. The application of professional standards plays a key role in this endeavour.

Al Muaini called on local, Gulf, and Arab media institutions to adopt this national campaign. She stressed its importance in addressing fake accounts that spread misleading information, undermine societal values, and incite chaos. She urged these institutions to help maintain societal ethics and protect public figures from defamation.

The collaboration between UAEJA and NMO reflects a unified effort to tackle one of today’s most pressing issues. By promoting correct values and professional standards, they aim to foster a safer online environment free from harmful misinformation.

This initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring that media practices align with national interests while protecting individuals from malicious online activities.

With inputs from WAM