emirates7 - TRENDS Research & Advisory highlighted the significant influence of modern media, noting its potential to either foster mutual understanding among people or exacerbate divisions. The organization emphasized the need for media to be a tool for truth-telling and for promoting human fraternity, particularly amid growing polarization and misinformation.

These comments were made during TRENDS’ involvement—via its virtual office in Indonesia—in an international conference hosted by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, in partnership with the Indonesian International Islamic University.

The two-day event, titled “Advancing Human Fraternity Amidst Global Uncertainties: Toward a More Peaceful and Prosperous World Civilisation,” recently concluded.

TRENDS contributed to the third session of the conference, “Media’s Role in Bridging Divides: Combating Disinformation and Promoting Human Fraternity.” Abdulaziz Al-Marzouqi, Director of TRENDS’ Global Offices Department, delivered a keynote speech stressing the essential role of responsible media in fostering values of dialogue and tolerance and in countering hate speech.

Key themes of the conference included youth empowerment, social justice, education, media ethics, and responsible innovation. The event gathered global thought leaders and civil society representatives to explore the role of research in tackling these critical challenges.