BRIDGE Report Issues Unprecedented Global Call to Confront Media's Trust and Ethics Crisis - Middle East Business News and Information
The 'Connecting Conversations New York City: Redefining The Future Of Global Media' report highlights a growing global consensus on the urgent need to rebuild trust and accountability in an era dominated by misinformation and AI-driven disruption.
HE Abdulla bin Butti Al Hamed called for global media leaders to 'start speaking the same language' and unite around shared values to implement real change.
The report marks the first in a series of BRIDGE publications that will capture insights and findings from upcoming global roundtables.
New York City USA, June 2025 – The BRIDGE Alliance has released its first Connecting Conversations report, drawing on findings from a high-level BRIDGE Roadshow roundtable hosted in New York by the UAE's National Media Office (NMO). The report, titled Connecting Conversations New York City: Redefining The Future Of Global Media , paints a striking picture of a media ecosystem in flux—caught between innovation and instability, influence and accountability, urgency and uncertainty.
The roundtable brought together cross-sector leaders from journalism, tech, academia, entertainment, and public affairs. Discussions were structured around six urgent themes, each revealing the deep disruption underway in how media is produced, consumed, and trusted.
The report opens with 'Virality Versus Veracity,' exploring how algorithm-driven virality now outpaces editorial accuracy, with many participants warning of the systemic consequences this poses for public trust. A related theme, 'Confronting AI's Impact on Journalism,' examines the growing dominance of generative AI tools in the newsroom—and the corresponding need for ethical guardrails, transparency, and responsible use.
Other chapters focus on the erosion of public confidence in media institutions. In 'Media, Education and Public Trust in a Post-Truth World,' leaders called for bold reforms in both journalism education and public media literacy. The roundtable also addressed the economic and emotional toll on audiences in 'Overwhelmed and Losing Faith,' urging the need to rebuild trust amid information overload.
'We must start speaking the same language. To connect on the same path forward. To bridge any gaps in knowledge and understanding. And to come together to implement change,' said His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE Media Council and the National Media Office.
He added: 'Through BRIDGE, we aim to revolutionize global media through pioneering collaboration, cutting-edge innovation, and a steadfast commitment to create a more inclusive global media ecosystem.'
One of the most resonant themes came in 'Trusting News in an Influencer-Driven World,' where participants debated the blurred lines between entertainment and information. From social media creators to AI avatars, the future of 'who informs the public' is shifting—and with it, the very foundations of journalistic credibility.
The roundtable in New York is the first in the BRIDGE Roadshow global series that continues with roundtables in London (June), Shanghai (August), and Osaka (September), culminating at the BRIDGE Summit 2025 in Abu Dhabi from 8–10 December. Insights from these global dialogues will directly inform the BRIDGE Summit's multi-zone programme and policy priorities—shaping an ambitious, action-oriented vision for the future of global media. Registrations for the BRIDGE Summit 2025 are now open.
ABOUT BRIDGE:
BRIDGE is a global platform dedicated to reshaping the future of media through cross-sector collaboration, innovation, and ethical leadership. Founded under the UAE's National Media Office, BRIDGE convenes diverse voices across media, technology, government, civil society, academia, and culture to address the most pressing challenges facing the information ecosystem. Its year-round programme includes international roundtables, the flagship BRIDGE Summit, and the BRIDGE Foundation's initiatives to empower the next generation of media leaders.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mid East Info
6 days ago
- Mid East Info
BRIDGE Report Issues Unprecedented Global Call to Confront Media's Trust and Ethics Crisis - Middle East Business News and Information
The 'Connecting Conversations New York City: Redefining The Future Of Global Media' report highlights a growing global consensus on the urgent need to rebuild trust and accountability in an era dominated by misinformation and AI-driven disruption. HE Abdulla bin Butti Al Hamed called for global media leaders to 'start speaking the same language' and unite around shared values to implement real change. The report marks the first in a series of BRIDGE publications that will capture insights and findings from upcoming global roundtables. New York City USA, June 2025 – The BRIDGE Alliance has released its first Connecting Conversations report, drawing on findings from a high-level BRIDGE Roadshow roundtable hosted in New York by the UAE's National Media Office (NMO). The report, titled Connecting Conversations New York City: Redefining The Future Of Global Media , paints a striking picture of a media ecosystem in flux—caught between innovation and instability, influence and accountability, urgency and uncertainty. The roundtable brought together cross-sector leaders from journalism, tech, academia, entertainment, and public affairs. Discussions were structured around six urgent themes, each revealing the deep disruption underway in how media is produced, consumed, and trusted. The report opens with 'Virality Versus Veracity,' exploring how algorithm-driven virality now outpaces editorial accuracy, with many participants warning of the systemic consequences this poses for public trust. A related theme, 'Confronting AI's Impact on Journalism,' examines the growing dominance of generative AI tools in the newsroom—and the corresponding need for ethical guardrails, transparency, and responsible use. Other chapters focus on the erosion of public confidence in media institutions. In 'Media, Education and Public Trust in a Post-Truth World,' leaders called for bold reforms in both journalism education and public media literacy. The roundtable also addressed the economic and emotional toll on audiences in 'Overwhelmed and Losing Faith,' urging the need to rebuild trust amid information overload. 'We must start speaking the same language. To connect on the same path forward. To bridge any gaps in knowledge and understanding. And to come together to implement change,' said His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE Media Council and the National Media Office. He added: 'Through BRIDGE, we aim to revolutionize global media through pioneering collaboration, cutting-edge innovation, and a steadfast commitment to create a more inclusive global media ecosystem.' One of the most resonant themes came in 'Trusting News in an Influencer-Driven World,' where participants debated the blurred lines between entertainment and information. From social media creators to AI avatars, the future of 'who informs the public' is shifting—and with it, the very foundations of journalistic credibility. The roundtable in New York is the first in the BRIDGE Roadshow global series that continues with roundtables in London (June), Shanghai (August), and Osaka (September), culminating at the BRIDGE Summit 2025 in Abu Dhabi from 8–10 December. Insights from these global dialogues will directly inform the BRIDGE Summit's multi-zone programme and policy priorities—shaping an ambitious, action-oriented vision for the future of global media. Registrations for the BRIDGE Summit 2025 are now open. ABOUT BRIDGE: BRIDGE is a global platform dedicated to reshaping the future of media through cross-sector collaboration, innovation, and ethical leadership. Founded under the UAE's National Media Office, BRIDGE convenes diverse voices across media, technology, government, civil society, academia, and culture to address the most pressing challenges facing the information ecosystem. Its year-round programme includes international roundtables, the flagship BRIDGE Summit, and the BRIDGE Foundation's initiatives to empower the next generation of media leaders.
Mid East Info
21-03-2025
- Mid East Info
National Media Office Showcases BRIDGE Summit at Annual Ramadan Gathering - Middle East Business News and Information
His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, on Wednesday showcased the UAE's newly announced BRIDGE Summit. Reaffirming the UAE's commitment, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to strengthening international cooperation in the media sector, HE Al Hamed said the nation recognises media as a key pillar of progress, a catalyst for positive change, and a driver of a more prosperous and sustainable future. These comments came during His Excellency's participation in a panel discussion titled 'How 'BRIDGE' is Shaping Media's Future?' The session was moderated by Anas Bukhash, Entrepreneur & Interviewer, Host of #ABtalks, as part of the annual Ramadan gathering organized by the National Media Office (NMO), held on Wednesday in Dubai. Speaking at the gathering, HE Al Hamed introduced the BRIDGE Summit to an audience of senior officials, media leaders, and industry experts. The summit, a long-term global initiative designed to connect East and West, enhance media integration, and keep pace with digital advancements, was launched by the NMO during a special ceremony in Washington DC on 10 March. HE Al Hamed said: 'Our gathering coincides with Zayed Humanitarian Day, a momentous occasion in the UAE's calendar. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan firmly believed that media is more than a communication tool—it is a humanitarian force that fosters goodwill and peace. His vision laid the foundation for a credible, respectful, and impactful media landscape. The BRIDGE Summit builds on this legacy, offering a global platform that leverages media for the greater good in line with our belief that media should unite, not divide.' Shaping the Future of Media: HE Al Hamed said: 'Our goal is to establish the BRIDGE Summit as a global benchmark for anticipating the future of media, driving industry transformation, and strengthening its contribution to the global economy. The summit will facilitate knowledge exchange, explore emerging technologies, and build bridges between media institutions, academia, and businesses.' He also described how rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping the media landscape. In response to these trends, the BRIDGE Summit aims to provide a global forum for international collaboration, addressing industry challenges and ensuring sustainability through innovation, transparency, and credibility. He added: 'BRIDGE is not just an event—it is a movement; it is the UAE's invitation to the world to collaborate in uplifting media's role in society. By forging strategic partnerships with global media organisations, we aim to develop an international framework that ensures ethical and responsible media practices in the digital age.' The BRIDGE initiative is a year-round effort to foster engagement, develop solutions for evolving media challenges, and champion innovation. Furthermore, the summit reinforces the idea that media is a shared responsibility—advancing it requires collaboration, and a commitment to sound ethics, truth and transparency. HE Al Hamed also announced the launch of the BRIDGE Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering media professionals, promoting responsible journalism, and positioning media as a transformative force in development and positive change, in line with the UAE's commitment to investing in talent and ensuring a resilient, future-ready media sector. A Call for Global Engagement: In closing, HE Al Hamed urged policymakers, media leaders, and decision-makers to engage with BRIDGE as a dynamic platform for dialogue and collaboration. HE Al Hamed said: 'Our success depends on open communication and a shared commitment to using media as a force for good. Let us work together to shape the future, build knowledge networks, and establish BRIDGE as a gateway to a more responsible and impactful media industry.' Following HE Al Hamed's address, His Excellency Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Director-General of the National Media Office, provided further insights into the BRIDGE Summit's key themes. He emphasised its role in driving international media collaboration, keeping pace with digital advancements, and fostering meaningful dialogue among media leaders and experts. Dr. Al Kaabi announced that Abu Dhabi will host the BRIDGE Summit from 8-10 December 2025, bringing together heads of state, CEOs, policymakers, and media professionals to shape the future of media. Emphasizing that BRIDGE is the UAE's 'gift to the world', Dr. Al Kaabi said the summit will also feature a media production exhibition showcasing cutting-edge innovations from leading national, regional, and global media companies. Dr. Al Kaabi said the BRIDGE Summit will also serve as a hub for media entrepreneurship, creating new opportunities for innovation and creativity. The event will provide a dynamic platform for media startups and innovators to present their ideas, connect with investors, and expand their presence in global markets. Panel discussions: The NMO's annual Ramadan gathering hosted a panel discussion titled ' Legacy vs. Disruptors: How has the Media Evolved Through Eras of Change '. The session featured Rani R. Raad, CEO, IMI, President and Operating Partner of RedBird IMI and was moderated by Richard Attias, Founder & Chairman, Richard Attias & Associates. The event also included a panel titled 'From Newsrooms to Algorithms: Who Controls the Future of Media?' The discussion featured Arya Bolurfrushan, Founder & CEO, Applied AI, Julien Hawari, CEO of Million, Marwan Kai, CEO of Media International Services Gulf, and Aaina Pahwa, Digital Content Creator, and was moderated by Becky Anderson, Journalist & Anchor at CNN.
Egypt Today
24-10-2024
- Egypt Today
World Bank President commends Egypt's reforms during meeting with Al-Mashat
Cairo – October 24, 2024: President of the World Bank (WB), Ajay Banga, praised Egypt's ongoing economic reforms and the creation of state-led investment platforms, emphasizing Egypt's position as a leading partner for the World Bank, during a meeting with Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat. Held on the sidelines of the WB annual meetings in Washington on Thursday, their meeting discussed private sector financing, capital market development, and restructuring the global financial system. Banga highlighted initiatives like the 'NWFE' platform, which promotes climate investments in adaptation and mitigation efforts, and the 'Hafiz' platform that fosters private sector participation. These projects, Banga noted, reflect Egypt's commitment to driving sustainable development and climate action. The discussions, held during the annual World Bank meetings in Washington, centered on enhancing Egypt's partnership with the World Bank to bolster economic development and address regional and global challenges. Al-Mashat expressed her gratitude for the World Bank's continued support, underscoring Egypt's dedication to advancing their collaboration to bridge development financing gaps, and calling on the WB to develop predictive economic models to assist developing nations in crafting effective growth strategies amidst global challenges. She stressed the importance of leveraging the World Bank's diagnostic reports and analytical tools to create evidence-based policies, aimed at accelerating economic growth. A key topic of discussion was Egypt's focus on private sector empowerment, with Al-Mashat pointing to the collaboration with IFC and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) as crucial to enhancing financial mechanisms available to private enterprises in Egypt. Al-Mashat stressed the urgency of reforming the global financial architecture to better support emerging economies, particularly in light of escalating global crises. She welcomed the progress made on the World Bank Group's roadmap for reform, including the launch of a unified guarantees platform and a grant preparation facility trust fund, both vital steps in supporting sustainable development policies. The meeting also explored the J-CAP program, a joint initiative by the IFC to develop capital markets across 18 countries, with a focus on boosting Egypt's capital market. The two sides discussed future joint projects, particularly in governance and development financing, and the upcoming National Strategy for Foreign Direct Investment, which is being finalized in cooperation with Egypt's General Authority for Investment. Egypt's current partnership portfolio with the World Bank includes 12 projects worth $5.5 billion, spanning key sectors such as education, healthcare, transportation, and social solidarity.
