Independent system needed ‘to keep social media in check’
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) freedom of expression expert says social media has created a double-edged sword.
The organisation's Ana Cristina Ruelas has been speaking at the 16th Global Media Forum in Bonn, Germany, where around 2 000 media stakeholders have gathered to discuss "Overcoming Divisions."
Ruelas says social media has created fertile soil for expanding freedom of expression.
But at the same time, it allows the spread of harmful content.
The challenge, she says, is to balance these two things.
She believes an independent regulatory system is needed to ensure checks and balances are in place to keep social media platforms in check.
German Iranian journalist Gilda Sahebi told delegates in Iran, there is not a single media outlet that gives you actual information.
"Social media is the only option," she says, adding, "The revolution would not be possible in Iran without social media.
Meanwhile, Russian journalist and co-laureate of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize, Dmitry Muratov, believes President Vladimir Putin wants to “build a new world and end the history of democracy”.
The world-renowned editor and press freedom advocate has been speaking at the 16th edition of Deutsche Welle’s Global Media Forum underway in Bonn, Germany.
Muratov says those against the war are in a “fight for the future”.
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