Public Opinion Challenges Addressed By Ministers At The Saudi Media Forum 2026

The ministerial session "Media as a Force for Change: Public Opinion Challenges and Shaping the Future Generation" at the Saudi Media Forum 2026 highlighted media’s growing influence on societies. Speakers stressed that media now guides public opinion, helps shape future generations, and must adapt to intense digital change while maintaining credibility and awareness.

The session formed part of the Saudi Media Forum 2026 programme and brought together several regional officials. Syrian Arab Republic Minister of Information Hamza al‑Mustafa, Republic of Yemen Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Muammar Al‑Eryani, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Minister of Government Communication Mohammad Al‑Momani, and State of Palestine General Supervisor of Media Ahmad Assaf all took part. Shura Council member Fahd Al‑Aqran moderated the discussion.

Participants examined how media outlets shape public opinion while facing an intense, fast information flow. They discussed the duties of institutions that manage news in an era of constant connectivity. The conversation focused on building societal awareness, protecting audiences from misinformation, and preparing a future generation that can read, analyse, and question media messages across digital platforms.

Mohammad Al‑Momani explained that contemporary media work extends far beyond collecting and sending information. He stated that reporting events is now a smaller part of the profession. According to Al‑Momani, a central mission is to interpret developments for public opinion, clarify their wider context, and explain how communities are affected and may respond.

Ahmad Assaf underlined that media messages gain impact when delivered accurately and professionally, without distortion. Assaf pointed to the need for societies to establish their own media platforms using modern technologies and recognised professional standards. Such platforms, Assaf said, strengthen the ability to present narratives clearly and credibly, especially when addressing regional issues and communicating with international audiences.

Hamza al‑Mustafa noted that media is no longer viewed as a simple transmission tool. Al‑Mustafa described it as part of a broad ecosystem of ideas and communication channels. This ecosystem, Al‑Mustafa said, actively shapes public awareness and influences opinion over time through repeated messages, shared values, and ongoing dialogue with audiences.

Muammar Al‑Eryani stated that societies are living in an age of quick impressions. According to Al‑Eryani, a single headline or short news item can form public attitudes. Al‑Eryani therefore stressed the need for accuracy, objectivity, and responsible content choices. The minister added that media leaders now manage impact as well as information, because their decisions influence an entire generation.

Speakers agreed that digital transformation has increased both opportunities and risks for media institutions. They emphasised that professional standards, fact‑checking, and clear explanation are essential for handling rapid information flows. The session ended by reaffirming media’s central role as a constructive force, guiding public opinion and helping create an informed, engaged generation for the digital era.

With inputs from SPA