October 12, 2018 | Jalilabad, Azerbaijan
The Modern Information Society and Innovations Public Union continued the implementation of the project “Support to the Prevention of Managed Disinformation Policy and Protection of National Interests in Social Networks”, carried out with the support of the State Support Council for Non-Governmental Organizations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
An awareness-raising event within the framework of the project was held in Jalilabad, with the participation of representatives of the local executive authorities, journalists, young people, and bloggers.
During the event, Loğman Hüseynov, Deputy Director of the Department of Social, Political, and Humanitarian Affairs of the Jalilabad District Executive Power, emphasized that the institution he represents is interested in close cooperation with civil society organizations. He noted that public discussions involving NGOs are mutually beneficial and stressed that the protection of national interests in social networks is a matter of national importance that requires the active participation of all segments of society.
Project expert and well-known journalist Seymur Verdizade stated that the main objective of the project is to encourage young people to protect national and moral values in information resources—particularly on social networks—and to prevent the spread of misinformation. He highlighted that while internet usage among children and adolescents is currently very high, the quality of content remains a serious concern. According to him, such events aim to raise awareness and sensitivity toward these challenges.
Mr. Verdizade further noted that social media platforms, often referred to as the “virtual street,” largely lack effective control mechanisms. He warned that social networks should not become “energy graveyards” for teenagers and young people, stressing the importance of guiding youth toward more productive and meaningful use of their time.
He also emphasized that social media, as a key phenomenon of the digital age, has already surpassed traditional media in terms of speed and audience reach. At the same time, he drew attention to the risks posed by the misuse of social networks, noting 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. In this regard, he called on all social media users to act responsibly, remain vigilant, and actively resist provocative and misleading content.
