ISLAMABAD: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has approved Pakistan’s landmark proposal to tackle disinformation, misinformation, and hate speech while safeguarding freedom of expression.
The initiative, presented by Pakistan’s Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch at the 222nd Session of the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris, received overwhelming cross-regional support, underscoring Islamabad’s growing role in shaping global digital policy.
The proposal calls for stronger international cooperation to build a safe, trustworthy, and human rights–based digital environment, one that balances free speech with responsibility in an era increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence and algorithmic influence.
“UNESCO’s centrality to promoting a safe, reliable, and inclusive information environment that upholds human rights, democratic values, and access to information for all remains essential,” Pakistan’s statement noted.
Member States lauded the proposal for addressing pressing challenges in the age of emerging technologies, including AI, neuro-technology, and immersive digital platforms.
The Executive Board emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability from digital platforms, urging measures to detect and label AI-generated or manipulated content and to strengthen content authentication systems.
UNESCO works to build peace through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication. It plays a leading role in promoting media freedom, ethical AI, and digital literacy worldwide.
By championing this initiative, Pakistan has positioned itself as an emerging voice in the global effort to safeguard information integrity and strengthen digital safety. Observers say the proposal’s adoption marks a forward-looking step toward creating international standards that protect both truth and transparency in the digital age.
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