The UAE Journalists Association (UAEJA) has announced its support for the anti-online-trolling campaign launched by Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO). This initiative, part of a broader collaboration between the UAEJA and NMO, aims to promote professional standards, reinforce national values and combat the rise of online trolls, often referred to as 'electronic flies.'
Fadila Abdullah Al Muaini, Chairperson of the UAE Journalists Association, emphasized the association's commitment to coordinating efforts with media institutions to support this national campaign. She explained that online trolling is often carried out by individuals harbouring malice towards the success of countries, institutions, and individuals. These trolls use fake accounts to spread misleading information and destructive ideas, attempting to tarnish achievements and successes.
Al Muaini highlighted the association's ongoing efforts to raise awareness among citizens and social media users. This includes organizing various programs and events throughout the year to educate the public on how to counteract harmful online behaviour. Additionally, the UAEJA is conducting training courses for young journalists and social media users, equipping them with the skills needed to combat the spread of incorrect values and harmful ideas on social media, thereby safeguarding national social peace and security.
The Chairperson further noted that the NMO's launch of this campaign reflects the UAE's commitment to enhancing security, promoting regional stability, and upholding values of tolerance. The initiative also addresses the threat of terrorism and destructive ideas spread by those with malicious intent. Al Muaini called on local, Gulf and Arab media institutions to adopt this national campaign, stressing its importance in combating fake accounts that disseminate misleading information, undermine societal values and incite chaos and defamation of public figures and successful individuals. She concluded by asserting that awareness is the most powerful tool in confronting these issues.