53 Nations Unite Against Disinformation as Azerbaijan Hosts Second Day of Media Forum.

Shusha Global Media Forum 2023

According to UATV: The second day of the Shusha Global Media Forum kicked off in Azerbaijan on July 14, 2023, with the central theme focusing on strategies to combat disinformation. Around 160 media representatives, experts, and officials from 53 countries are participating in the event. Key topics include support for Ukraine and upholding Azerbaijan's territorial integrity.

Launched on July 13, 2023, the forum addresses the role of media in promoting peace and rebuilding public trust. Attendees note that approximately 37% of people trust traditional media, while the rest rely on information from social networks. This statistic underscores the forum's emphasis on media's critical role in an era where disinformation can severely impact societies.

Participants and Discussions

Delegates hail from Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, the United States, Baltic nations, Argentina, and India. During a session, prominent expert Gela Vasadze remarked:

“The 'never give up' of back then and the 'never give up' of today sounded completely different.” - Gela Vasadze

Another participant, Ramiz Yunus, shared his frontline experience, stating: 'I have been on this front for 4.5 years; I know how it works.'

The forum serves as a platform for exchanging ideas and expertise on tackling information security challenges and fostering regional peace. Discussions cover not only current threats but also potential solutions to counter disinformation and promote stability.

This global media gathering highlights the growing need for international collaboration in fighting disinformation, especially amid global conflicts and social transformations. Cross-country and cross-expert knowledge sharing may pave the way for effective strategies to improve the media landscape and restore trust in information. Such forums are vital for fostering dialogue between diverse cultures and approaches to shared media challenges.