Hosting Global Media Forum in Shusha carries deep symbolic weight - Azerbaijani president's aide

Shusha holds a special value for the Azerbaijani people, and hosting the Global Media Forum in this historic city—one that endured occupation—carries deep symbolic significance.

Hikmet Hajiyev, the Azerbaijani president's aide, made the remarks at the 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum in Shusha on July 20, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

"For three consecutive years, the Global Media Forum has been held in the beautiful city of Shusha. Why this city in particular? Shusha is a source of inspiration for the Azerbaijani people. Many thinkers, writers, philosophers, and journalists were born and worked here. By following this tradition, we aim to restore Shusha's inspiring voice," he noted.

According to Hajiyev, the participation of representatives from over 50 countries, including from media and academic circles, underscores the international importance of the forum. Special focus is also placed on highlighting the post-conflict realities of a region that has experienced war and occupation.

"Unfortunately, false narratives about Shusha, Karabakh, and Eastern Zangezur were widespread for many years. For instance, the tragedy in Khojaly was not adequately covered in international media—it was only Azerbaijani outlets that reported on it," he added.

Hajiyev emphasized that Azerbaijani media played a crucial role in the information battle during the 44-day Patriotic War. "We witnessed large-scale disinformation campaigns targeting our country. But Azerbaijani journalists did more than just report accurate information—they fought a real battle against an entire system of lies. Thanks to their professionalism, unity, and international cooperation, we succeeded in this information struggle," he concluded.

By organising the forum in Shusha, Azerbaijan aims to foster a creative atmosphere for the exchange of ideas and proposals on pressing challenges facing the modern media landscape.

Speaking on the relationship between society and the media, he noted that Azerbaijani society is actively engaging with the country’s media, particularly in the area of developing media literacy.

According to him, special attention is being paid to improving media literacy on social networks and among children.

"We are convinced that building a media-literate generation is one of the most important ways to strengthen our society’s informational immunity," Hajiyev emphasised.

The 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum, held from July 19 to 21, in Khankendi, Shusha, Azerbaijan, is themed “Digital Pathways: Strengthening Information and Media Resilience in the Age of AI.” Launched in 2023, the forum has become a prominent platform for global media dialogue, addressing critical issues like disinformation, media sustainability, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in journalism.

The event attracts over 140 participants from 52 countries, including representatives from more than 30 news agencies, 7 international organisations, and nearly 80 media outlets, alongside Azerbaijani media professionals, experts, and officials.

By Khagan Isayev