A high-level national dialogue was recently held in Islamabad to develop a comprehensive framework on Media and Information Literacy (MIL) aimed at combatting misinformation and disinformation in Pakistan. Organized by UNESCO in collaboration with Media Foundation 360, SZABIST University Islamabad, and the University of the Punjab’s Department of Digital Media, the event gathered federal government representatives, academic experts, media professionals, and civil society leaders to discuss strategies for strengthening Pakistan’s MIL Policy Framework.
Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, delivered the keynote address at the dialogue. He emphasized the urgent need to tackle growing threats posed by misinformation and disinformation, calling on all stakeholders to make collective efforts in addressing these serious challenges. Minister Iqbal committed to present the finalized MIL framework, developed as a result of this nationwide dialogue, to the federal government for necessary action and policy implementation.
UNESCO National Programme Officer, Hamza Sawati, inaugurated the event by welcoming participants and acknowledging collaborating institutions. Sawati underscored the necessity of a robust national MIL framework, reaffirming UNESCO’s commitment to promoting critical media literacy, responsible digital engagement, and informed citizenship in today’s complex information environment.
Dr. Savera Mujib Shami, Research Lead of the MIL initiative and Chairperson of the Department of Digital Media at the University of the Punjab, presented a detailed overview of the project. Her presentation included key recommendations drawn from comprehensive provincial and district-level consultations conducted throughout the country. These recommendations highlighted vital strategies to foster greater media awareness, digital literacy, and resilience against misinformation.
Additionally, Mr. Khusro Pervaiz Khan, Head of SZABIST University’s Islamabad Campus, expressed strong support for the initiative and highlighted the critical role academic institutions must play in nurturing media-literate and analytically capable citizens. He reiterated SZABIST’s commitment toward equipping young people with essential digital competencies and responsible media consumption habits.
Political Counsellor at the Canadian High Commission, Daniel Arsenault, also addressed the forum and commended Pakistan’s efforts to create a structured MIL policy framework. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening democratic processes, ensuring informed citizenship, and building societal resilience to false information.
Prominent media personalities and journalists, including Ms. Asma Shirazi, Mr. Mohammad Malick, Mr. Amir Ilyas Rana, Mr. Hamid Mir, former PFUJ President Mr. Nawaz Raza, CEO of Pakistan Observer Mr. Faisal Zahid Malik, former Executive Director of the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services Mr. Zafar Ullah, and current PFUJ President Mr. Afzal Butt, participated actively in discussions. They unanimously described the national dialogue as a timely and vital step towards countering misinformation and building critical thinking among media consumers. The senior journalists further stressed the necessity for broader social reforms—particularly within primary education and among older demographics—highlighting the influential role older generations often play in disseminating misinformation.
Participants from diverse sectors expressed appreciation for the inclusive nature of the dialogue, praising the organizers for launching an initiative that addresses an urgent national and global issue. Insights and recommendations collected from the event are expected to guide the development of Pakistan’s comprehensive MIL policy, aimed at safeguarding democratic values, enhancing digital proficiency among citizens, and enabling society to withstand the pervasive threats of misinformation and disinformation.
