Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (SHARJAH)
During the second and final day of the 13th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024), a panel session delved into the pivotal role of media in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). The discussion also spotlighted the significant challenges media organisations face in enhancing their adaptability amid rapid technological advancements.
During the session titled “The Future of Media in the Era of Flexible Governments: Challenges and Opportunities”, leading media and research professionals concurred that the role of the media has become more critical in disseminating information, shaping public opinion, and encouraging civic participation as governments are increasingly adopting flexible mechanisms to enhance transparency and engage with the public.
During the session held at Expo Centre Sharjah, under the theme “Agile Governments... Innovative Communication”, they explored the dual nature of challenges and opportunities presented by this shift, particularly in the context of digital transformation.
Dr. Hamad Al Kaabi, Chief Aletihad News Center Officer, highlighted the transformative effect of AI on the media industry. He noted that, similar to its impact on sectors like medicine and manufacturing, AI is reshaping media by increasing efficiency, fostering creativity, and automating repetitive tasks.
Dr. Al Kaabi pointed out that Abu Dhabi Media Network has embraced this technological revolution, introducing the first AI TV anchor to deliver news in both Arabic and English.
He also outlined several challenges facing the media industry, including the vast amount of content generated through social media, the rapid pace of technological change, and the issue of misinformation undermining trust in the media. Dr. Al Kaabi commended the UAE’s proactive regulatory measures for social media, as a necessary step towards effective governance of digital platforms.
Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, identified three primary challenges for the media: the “digital tsunami” of rapid technological advancements, the spread of misinformation including deepfake technology, and the necessity for transparency in news delivery.
He stressed the importance of research centres in supporting media and government efforts to combat misinformation and enhance clarity in reporting.
Mohammed Ghanem, Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Radio Authority, discussed how digital media has impacted traditional media revenue and reshaped consumption patterns. He noted the transformative effects of social media and digital technologies on the news industry, emphasising the need for media outlets to adapt to these changes.
Former Egyptian Ambassador to the UAE, Sharif Badawi, participated in the discussion virtually and discussed the agility of flexible governments in responding to social, economic, and political changes. He noted that such governments leverage creative approaches and advanced technologies.
Drawing on his diplomatic experience, Badawi highlighted the evolving role of media in diplomacy. He explained that the media has become crucial in shaping public opinion on international issues, which in turn influences decision-making processes.
Despite the challenges of the digital media landscape, including misinformation and economic difficulties, media remains essential for informing government decisions and fostering public dialogue, according to Badawi. He noted that the media not only conveys information but also plays a key role in shaping public opinion, enhancing transparency, and improving decision-making processes.
Iraqi writer Rasheed Al-Khayyun underscored the vital role of research centres in fighting misinformation in the social media era. He called for a reliance on credible sources and accurate verification to combat the spread of false information, emphasising the need for reliable news in an age of rapid information dissemination.
