Misinformation Undermines Trust in Democratic Institutions : Prof Ahsan Iqbal

Federal Minister for Planning, Professor Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary , graced a seminar with his presence organized by 联合国开发计划署 on Digital Democracy in Action: Enhancing Engagement through social media. The seminar brought together political leaders, digital experts, media professionals, and representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to explore the role of modern technology in today's democratic processes.

In his address, Professor Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the transformative impact of social media on society. "The widespread use of social media indicates its significant impact on society. Digital platforms have become vital channels for governments to communicate their messages to the public, keeping citizens informed about policy decisions, project progress, and various initiatives," he remarked.

Professor Iqbal also highlighted the challenges posed by social media, particularly the spread of misinformation. "Wrong information leads to public panic, social unrest, and a weakening of trust in democratic institutions. The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report identifies misinformation as a major threat, underscoring the seriousness of this issue," he noted.

Addressing the positive aspects of social media, the Federal Minister urged for initiatives such as online voter education campaigns and informative social media efforts that promote active citizenship.

"Political parties can educate their voters about the political process and voting rights through these platforms. Social media amplifies the voices of marginalized individuals, showcasing its potential as a tool for positive change," he added.

However, Professor Iqbal expressed concerns about the misuse of social media, citing the potential for spreading hate and false information.

"There is complete freedom of expression on social media in Pakistan, but the downside is that people often spread information without proper research.

Quoting his own life's incident, the Minister said, "I myself have been a target of such hatred. On May 6, 2018, a young man, influenced by hateful messages on social media, attempted to take my life. The bullet remains in my body as a reminder of the need for greater understanding and tolerance in society," he shared.

In his concluding remarks, Professor Iqbal urged individuals to approach information critically and responsibly. "The difference between humans and animals is that animals react immediately to stimuli, while humans have the ability to choose their responses. It is crucial to investigate any information before reacting. Continuous exposure to misinformation can make human behavior robotic, depriving us of the ability to analyze and think critically," he cautioned.

The seminar was a significant step in addressing the complexities of digital democracy and the role of social media in election campaigns. It underscored the need for responsible use of digital platforms to foster a more informed and tolerant society.