Post by : Sameer Farouq

In a significant development, the UAE has secured a position on the Executive Office of the Arab Information Ministers Council at a meeting held in Cairo at the League of Arab States headquarters. This election underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering collaboration among Arab media and influencing cooperative policies across the region.

The UAE delegation, which included Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, who leads the National Media Office and the UAE Media Council, participated actively in the 55th ordinary session of the Arab Information Ministers. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, along with other high-ranking officials from member nations, was also present.

Al Hamed expressed that this election is a testament to the trust Arab nations have in the UAE's media expertise. He emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance content quality, empower talented individuals, and utilize digital transformation for a more robust Arab media landscape.

In his speech, Al Hamed extended greetings from UAE leadership and acknowledged the pivotal role of Arab media in fostering awareness, advocating core values, and addressing notable regional and global matters. He highlighted media's responsibilities, emphasizing that it must also catalyze development, promote social stability, and preserve cultural identity.

He reiterated the significance of the Arab Media Code of Honour, reiterating its role as a guiding framework that upholds fairness, truth, and humanity. Amendments made to the Code stress that Arab media should aim to nurture stability and unity, steering clear of misinformation.

Al Hamed further acknowledged the transformative power of digital media, which has emerged as a crucial instrument for disseminating information across borders. He called for cohesive initiatives among Arab nations to harmonize freedom of expression with content accountability, combat misinformation, and enhance the global presence of Arab media.

The UAE representative emphasized the importance of the Arab Electronic Media Committee, which serves as a collaborative platform to tackle digital media challenges while maximizing benefits in the long term. Additionally, he pointed out the necessity of unified messaging and cooperative efforts to counter extremist narratives.

Highlighting the urgency of training media personnel, Al Hamed underlined that excellence is tied to abilities in research, analysis, and content creation. He encouraged collaborative programs, robust institutional partnerships, and clear standards to nurture a skilled and accountable media workforce.

Concerning emerging technologies, Al Hamed stated that AI presents opportunities for improving media efficiency, yet the human element remains irreplaceable. He urged the quintessential use of technology with a commitment to transparency, privacy, and ethical considerations.

The UAE’s delegation also featured prominent figures such as Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to Egypt, and Maitha Majed Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Media Strategy and Policy Sector.

The 55th session addressed various topics including the Palestinian issue, Action Plans for Arab media abroad, environmental communication, professional growth, integration of media literacy in educational systems, and strategies for engaging with international media companies amidst the adaptation of novel technologies and AI.

The UAE's inclusion in the Executive Office reflects its leadership in enhancing ethical standards within Arab media and promoting digital development across the region.

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