Digital media challenges in Pakistan discussed in meetup

In a meetup organised by the Global Neighborhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) and the United States Department of State, leading figures from Pakistan's civil society, alongside prominent digital influencers, gathered to address the burgeoning challenges and possibilities presented by digital media.

The #SocioCivil event aimed to forge a new path for civil society organisations (CSOs) in Pakistan, emphasising the urgent need to amplify their social media presence, particularly to bridge the gap with rural communities and promote gender-sensitive content.

Senior Broadcast Journalist and President of GNMI, Najia Ashar, highlighted the strides made by the InfluenceUP program, which trains local influencers to craft content that resonates deeply with audiences and fosters positive social narratives. Ashar's dedication to peace journalism and environmental reporting through innovative approaches sets a new benchmark for media endeavors aimed at societal betterment, the meetup said.

The discussions delved into leveraging digital platforms for societal impact, ethical digital advocacy, and effective collaborations between CSOs and digital content creators. Zulfiqar Shah from the Sindh Human Rights Commission pointed out the transformative power of social media in challenging conventional narratives, stressing the importance of integrating traditional civil society efforts with modern digital strategies.

Mushoud Ali of Individualland and Yusra Ilyas from the Council for Participatory Development shed light on the complexities of digital media beyond social networks, calling for a nuanced understanding and strategic content creation to engage diverse audiences effectively.

A focal point of the event was the call for enhanced collaboration between CSOs and digital platforms to tackle gender biases and promote the rights of marginalised groups. Hasnain Raza, Director of GNMI, emphasised the need for content that addresses taboo subjects, employing engaging formats to maximise reach and impact.