The UAE Journalists Association (UAEJA) has announced its support for an anti-online-trolling campaign initiated by Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed Bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO). This campaign, a collaboration between the UAEJA and the NMO, aims to promote professional standards, uphold national values, and combat online trolls, often referred to as “electronic flies,” a term that describes one of the most severe modern issues.
Fadila Abdullah Al Muaini, Chairperson of the UAE Journalists Association, emphasized the association’s commitment to working closely with media institutions to back this national initiative against online trolling. She described the perpetrators as individuals filled with malice and resentment towards the achievements of countries, institutions, and individuals, using fake accounts to spread misinformation and harmful ideas. Their goal, she said, is to tarnish reputations and undermine successes.
Al Muaini highlighted the UAEJA’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness among citizens and social media users to counter these threats. The association is organizing various programs and events throughout the year, including training courses aimed at young journalists and social media users. These initiatives are designed to equip them with the skills needed to challenge harmful narratives and prevent the spread of false values on social media, ultimately protecting social peace and national security.
She further stressed that the launch of this campaign by the NMO reflects the UAE’s commitment to enhancing regional security and stability, promoting tolerance, and combating rumors and divisive rhetoric. By adhering to professional standards and disseminating positive values, the campaign seeks to address terrorism and destructive ideologies propagated by those with ill intentions.
Al Muaini urged media institutions to adopt this national campaign highlighting its vital role in tackling fake and automated accounts that spread misinformation, undermine societal values and ethics, and incite chaos by defaming public figures and successful individuals. She emphasized that awareness is the most powerful weapon in confronting these issues.
