BRIDGE Summit 2025 Preparations Engage Media Leaders And Policymakers At IGCF In Sharjah
BRIDGE recently hosted a significant event in Sharjah, aligning with the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF). This gathering was part of the global preparatory Roadshow for the BRIDGE Summit 2025, set to occur in Abu Dhabi from December 8–10. The event united leaders from media, arts, and content sectors with government officials to discuss collaborative efforts in these industries.
Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Director-General of the UAE National Media Office and Vice Chairman of BRIDGE, highlighted IGCF's role as a launchpad for BRIDGE. He noted that media now encompasses more than traditional outlets; it is an integrated system shaping awareness and international relations. Al Kaabi emphasised the need for a unified platform for creators, investors, and distributors.
The forum also facilitated discussions among government officials and communication professionals. It aimed to develop tools that adapt to global changes. Sharjah's role as a hub for dialogue and innovation in government communication was underscored by its expertise in fostering transparency between governments and communities.
Al Kaabi further explained that modern government communication extends beyond official statements. It includes cinema, drama, entertainment content, and public dialogue. This approach allows governments to redefine their roles in message creation and influence engineering. BRIDGE aims to unite governments and content creators to reshape future narratives.
The event featured a panel titled "Bridges, Not Walls," where content creator Tareq Skaik shared his vision on content's humanitarian role. He stressed that creating content is driven by a need to leave a lasting cultural mark. Skaik highlighted the importance of reflecting regional security and leadership in global digital spaces through authentic content.
Media's Role in Society
A session titled "Blueprints for a Media Order that Strengthens Society" was presented by Dr. Moataz Abdel-Fattah, moderated by Lenah Hassaballah. Abdel-Fattah discussed media's role in promoting values and societal cohesion. He emphasised states' moral responsibility to instil values like economic initiative and scientific knowledge alongside factual dissemination.
Abdel-Fattah praised the UAE's success in regulating media roles while integrating them with educational and religious institutions. He advocated for conferences uniting influencers to establish guidelines for responsible content production. He also noted AI's potential impact on media's future, stressing the importance of building resilience against its risks.
The BRIDGE Summit 2025 aims not just to be a media forum but a comprehensive vision repositioning media as pillars of development and culture. Al Kaabi stated that the UAE is creating a lasting platform supporting partnerships beyond borders, enhancing opportunities across regions.
Skaik concluded by urging individuals from all fields to contribute positively through content creation. Engineers, doctors, teachers, students, and journalists can all help present narratives that reflect their communities' true identities rather than those imposed externally.
BRIDGE’s initiative at IGCF highlights Sharjah’s pivotal role in shaping future communication strategies globally. By fostering collaboration among diverse sectors, it seeks to create sustainable systems enhancing transparency between governments and societies worldwide.
With inputs from WAM
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