UAE Advocates For Binding Media Standards To Protect Gulf Values And Identity
Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and UAE Media Council, attended the 28th GCC Ministers of Information meeting in Kuwait. The UAE delegation included key figures like Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi and Maitha Al Suwaidi. Al Hamed expressed hopes for a roadmap that highlights the Gulf's development through effective media collaboration.
Al Hamed emphasised the UAE's view of media as a crucial partner in development, promoting awareness and acting as soft power to shape the future. He stressed the importance of media cooperation among GCC countries to create a unified voice that preserves identity and addresses challenges responsibly.
He highlighted the need for content that reflects Gulf societies' uniqueness, celebrating their authenticity. This narrative should instil pride and belonging in future generations, essential for societal resilience against misrepresentation. He also addressed the evolving media landscape, noting that digital platforms have broadened who can publish content.
The Chairman warned against unethical practices on digital platforms, which could undermine media integrity and mislead audiences. He argued that such practices erode responsible media's core values, hindering its role in supporting societal issues and protecting cultural security.
Al Hamed proposed establishing unified standards for media content across GCC countries. These standards should be binding for global social media platforms to ensure alignment with Gulf values and prevent content that contradicts them from spreading.
He discussed the ongoing technological revolution, stating that media's future extends beyond traditional tools like cameras and pens. Emphasising adaptation to AI developments, digital content innovation, and changing audience behaviour is crucial for leading in smart, impactful media.
Technological Advancements
The meeting also saw GCC information ministers launch a trial version of a new mobile app for GCC news agencies. This app offers official news access, live-streaming of TV and radio channels, photo and video archives, and social media feeds from each agency.
Developed with cutting-edge technology and AI, this application aims to meet Gulf audiences' needs while supporting digital media development and cooperation among regional news agencies.
Future Meetings
The meeting covered topics like strengthening joint media work, coordinating international positions, countering targeted campaigns, and supporting content reinforcing Gulf identity. Al Hamed invited participants to next year's 29th GCC Ministers of Information meeting in the UAE, hoping unity seen in Kuwait continues there.
In his closing remarks, he expressed confidence in continued cooperation among GCC states. The spirit of solidarity witnessed at this meeting is expected to carry forward into future gatherings hosted by the UAE.
With inputs from WAM
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