GCC Secretary-General: Growing Challenges Heighten Need for Professional and Responsible Media
Jassim Al-Bedaiwi Emphasized That Rising Challenges Enhance Media Responsibility in Combating Misinformation and Building Awareness During the Arab Media Summit in Dubai.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Dubai, September 15 (KUNA) -- The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Al-Budaiwi affirmed today, Tuesday, that the growing challenges facing the region intensify the need for a professional, aware, and responsible media that safeguards the truth, builds awareness, enhances stability, and counters disinformation campaigns.
Speaking at the Arab Media Summit 2026 held in Dubai, Al-Budaiwi stated that "rapid digital transformations, the advancement of artificial intelligence technologies, and the expanding influence of digital platforms have heightened the media's responsibility in confronting hate speech, misinformation, and organized campaigns."
He emphasized that media readiness is an integral part of the national security system, as the media has become a key partner in shaping awareness, building trust, and fostering societal resilience capable of distinguishing between truth and falsehood.
Al-Budaiwi noted that GCC leaders attach great importance to joint Gulf media efforts, recognizing their role in consolidating Gulf identity, strengthening cohesion among the peoples of the member states, supporting comprehensive development, and highlighting the achievements of the cooperation and integration process.
He clarified that the Strategic Plan for Joint Media Cooperation among GCC member states for the period 2023–2030 aims to develop Gulf media content, enhance Gulf values and identity, raise awareness about digital safety, and expand media partnerships. He stressed that investment in media supports intellectual security, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
Al-Budaiwi addressed the Iranian aggression against GCC countries and the accompanying disinformation campaigns and factual distortions, highlighting the importance of strengthening joint Gulf media efforts and establishing mechanisms to deal with misleading campaigns and convey facts to the world with credibility and transparency.
He praised the professionalism of Gulf media in reporting the truth, countering rumors, and engaging rapidly with the public, noting that recent experiences have underscored the importance of media readiness within the national security framework.
Concluding his remarks, Al-Budaiwi reaffirmed the alignment of the Arab Media Summit’s objectives with the GCC’s vision to develop a modern and impactful media that keeps pace with technological transformations while preserving its professional and ethical values. He affirmed that the Council will remain a supportive partner for every effort aimed at elevating Arab media.
Dubai is hosting the Arab Media Summit 2026 from September 15 to 17, with broad participation from media professionals and experts to discuss the future of media and the key transformations shaping the sector. (End) S.K.M. / S.M.A.
