Azerbaijani official addresses digitalisation, disinformation at 2nd Shusha Global Media Forum

Assistant of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Head of Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmat Hajiyev has highlighted the dual impact of digitalisation on information.

Hajiyev made these remarks at the 2nd Shusha Global Media Forum, Caliber.Az reports citing the local media.

Speaking at the event, Hajiyev emphasised that while digitalisation has accelerated the production and dissemination of information, it has also intensified the issue of information pollution.

He underscored the role of disinformation in manipulating news and shaping public opinion.

Hajiyev pointed out that Azerbaijan has recently faced significant challenges with disinformation, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming COP29 conference. Despite this, he reaffirmed Azerbaijan's commitment to advancing its agenda and contributing meaningfully to global efforts in combating climate change.

"Before the COP29 conference, Azerbaijan faced a wave of disinformation. However, as Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated, this should not deter us. We will continue to progress and actively contribute to the climate change agenda," Hajiyev stated.

The 2nd Shusha Global Media Forum on "Unmasking False Narratives: Confronting Disinformation" is taking place in the cultural capital of Azerbaijan on July 20-22.

The Forum, attended by over 150 foreign guests from around 50 countries, including news agencies of 30 countries, three international organizations, and 82 media entities, provides a platform for joint discussions and actions among participants.

The first Shusha Global Media Forum themed “New Media in the Era of the 4th Industrial Revolution” was held on July 21-23, 2023.

The forum includes four panel sessions on "Assessing Impact: Setting the Scope of Disinformation", "Policies and Initiatives for Building a More Disinformation Resistant Society", "The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Reality, Media and Disinformation: Promoting Media Literacy" and "The Climate Movement and Media".

Officials, media and civil society, government officials and businessmen, representatives of international organisations and media experts from various countries exchange views and experiences at the panel sessions.

These sessions facilitate discussions among officials from various countries, media and civil society representatives, international organization representatives, and media experts. Participants will exchange views and share experiences on the highlighted topics.