Arab media leaders have stressed the critical role of digital media in advancing sustainable development, calling for closer integration between official and online platforms to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving communication landscape.
Speaking on the sidelines of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) 2025 in Sharjah, officials from Saudi Arabia and Jordan pointed to national initiatives that demonstrate how digital platforms can foster responsible communication, support youth engagement, and strengthen sustainability agendas.
Abdulrahman Majrashi, Head of Saudi Arabia’s Government Communication Centre and spokesperson for the Ministry of Media, underscored the need for cross-platform collaboration. He highlighted Saudi initiatives such as the “ImpaQ” influencer forum, which brought together more than 1,500 influencers and drew 30,000 visitors, and the “Mawthooq” licence, which provides official recognition to influencers and encourages responsible digital content creation.
From Jordan, Dr. Zaid Al-Nawaiseh, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Government Communication, emphasized the urgency of media literacy among young people. Since 2020, Jordan has introduced university courses on digital media, equipping students with skills to verify information, combat disinformation, and challenge hate speech. These efforts, he said, promote critical thinking and civic engagement while tackling broader national challenges.
The remarks at IGCF reflect a wider regional acknowledgment of digital media’s potential to serve as both a tool for public accountability and a driver of sustainable development. Officials agreed that collaboration between governments, institutions, and digital platforms will be central to shaping a communication ecosystem that supports long-term progress.
–Input WAM
