Phnom Penh, November 23, 2024: The 12th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and the 7th Meeting of the ICAPP Media Forum convened this morning, gathering political leaders and media representatives from across Asia to address the pressing issue of fake news in the digital age.
Co-chaired by Mr. Netr Phekta, the Minister of Information of Cambodia, the meeting featured participants from 18 political parties and journalists from 15 media outlets, representing countries including Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, the Republic of Korea, Lebanon, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Turkey. This forum operated under the theme “Fighting Fake News in the Digital Age to Sustain Peace.”
Participants voiced significant concerns regarding the rapid spread of disinformation through digital platforms, noting its potential to instigate violence, promote hatred, and exacerbate racial tensions. The widespread prevalence of fake news has not only disrupted political and social stability in various regions but has also strained international relationships.
The Forum recognized that the rise of fake news poses serious challenges to traditional journalism, undermining reputable sources and established media platforms committed to ethical reporting. In response, attendees emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts aimed at devising effective tools and frameworks to monitor and mitigate the dissemination of false information that threatens global peace initiatives.
Additionally, the forum addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the propagation of misinformation, urging participants to remain vigilant in managing its unforeseen consequences.
To combat disinformation globally, the United Nations presented a framework for a Code of Conduct for Information, which seeks to cultivate a more inclusive digital environment while safeguarding human rights and the principles of free expression and access to information.
As digital technologies continue to evolve, the critical role of the media in countering misinformation is increasingly recognized. The ICAPP assembly reaffirmed a commitment to harnessing the strengths of media networks across Asia, reinforcing the organization's mission to foster an Asian community rooted in peace and reconciliation.
The discussions held at this assembly signify a proactive approach to confronting the challenges posed by fake news, emphasizing collective action and international cooperation as vital to sustaining peace and trust among nations.
