October 4, 2018 | Salyan, Azerbaijan
The Modern Information Society and Innovations Public Union continued the implementation of the project “Support for the Prevention of Managed Disinformation Policy and Protection of National Interests in Social Networks”, implemented with the support of the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The next project event was held in Salyan.
The event brought together representatives of the local executive authorities, journalists, young people, and bloggers. Speaking at the event, Agshin Babayev, Deputy Director of the Department of Social, Political, and Humanitarian Affairs of the Salyan District Executive Power, stated that the institution he represents is interested in close cooperation with civil society organizations. He emphasized that protecting national interests in social networks is a shared responsibility and that all segments of society should actively participate in this process.
Project expert and well-known journalist Seymur Verdizade noted that the primary goal of the project is to encourage young people to protect national and moral values in information resources—particularly on internet information portals—and to prevent the spread of misinformation. He highlighted that while internet usage among children and young people is currently very high, the quality of content remains a serious concern. According to him, the purpose of organizing such events is to raise awareness and sensitivity toward these challenges.
Mr. Verdizade further described social media platforms as a “virtual street”, pointing out that they largely lack effective control mechanisms. He stressed the importance of individual responsibility, noting that users should carefully consider the content they share, as today’s online behavior directly influences the upbringing of the next generation.
In addition, he emphasized that social media has already surpassed traditional media in terms of speed and reach of information dissemination. He noted that Azerbaijan’s recent achievements, major international events hosted in the country, large-scale energy and transport projects, and the strengthening of national defense capabilities have become targets of disinformation campaigns by hostile and anti-Azerbaijani circles. At the same time, he warned that the free internet environment and the absence of unified oversight mechanisms can be exploited by radical and fanatical groups for propaganda and recruitment purposes.
The event continued with an open discussion based on the participants’ presentations and comments.
