BAKU (MNN); Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, addressing the D-8 Media Forum in Baku, said that Azerbaijan had actively contributed to the organisation with strong energy and commitment after joining D-8.
Tarar said D-8 countries possess powerful success stories and important reform initiatives that should be highlighted globally. He added that this is the ideal moment for member states to enhance cooperation, coordination, and collective action.
He noted that the global media landscape is undergoing rapid and unprecedented changes. Media has moved from print to electronic and now to a fully digital era, with digital platforms becoming the fastest-expanding communication tool worldwide.
The minister said the D-8 Media Forum could play a key role in formulating a shared code of conduct and ethical standards. Educating the younger generation, especially Gen Z, on media literacy and factual information was essential in today’s environment.
Tarar shared that Pakistan now has 117 million internet users, with over 79 million active social media users. He said that 68 percent of the country’s population consists of youth who are at the forefront of the media transformation. Pakistan’s media landscape, he added, is moving in a positive direction.
Referring to recent tensions with India, Tarar said an intense information war was also underway, and Gen Z effectively delivered timely and accurate information by utilising digital platforms. This coordination between youth and digital tools helped the country access credible information during the crisis.
He said the government is strengthening national broadcasters to improve timely and effective communication. Pakistan has prioritised transparent communication, digital responsibility, and stronger linkages between media organisations. He added that fact-checking systems exist on online platforms and are frequently used to verify information and counter fake news.
Misinformation and disinformation, Tarar said, have become the biggest global challenges. He recalled that when world leaders at the World Economic Forum were asked to identify the most serious modern threat, they did not name nuclear war or climate change but pointed to misinformation as the top challenge.
Tarar said the formation of a joint fact-checking platform is now a necessity. He stressed that member states must partner closely to combat online extremism and hate speech.
He stated that when Pakistan assumes the D-8 secretary generalship in January 2026, it will benefit from the experience and leadership of the current secretary general. He added that D-8 countries should collectively work toward a shared code of conduct.
Tarar concluded that Pakistan will support efforts to enhance peace, stability, and collective resilience. The goal, he said, is to build a sustainable and responsible media framework for future generations.
