ThinkFest 2025 concludes: Canadian diplomat stresses safe space for journalists

LAHORE:The much-anticipated ThinkFest concluded here with a vibrant array of sessions covering diverse topics.

The session on media literacy and digital rights, moderated by Tarhub Asghar, began with a discussion on the role of short films in promoting media literacy. A brief and impactful video was played for the audience, highlighting the power of visual storytelling in raising awareness about digital challenges. Following this, Asghar introduced the panelists, setting the stage for a dynamic conversation on the evolving landscape of media literacy. The session opened with a question to the Canada's Political, Public Affairs and Economic Counsellor Daniel Arsenault, about his perspective on media literacy and digital rights. He emphasised the urgent need to provide safe spaces for journalists and online writers, enabling them to express their views without fear. Arsenault drew attention towards the challenges faced by journalism in Pakistan, stating that the current environment for journalists is fraught with difficulties.

Nighat Dad, founder of the Digital Rights Foundation, responded by shedding light on the plight of minorities in Pakistan, particularly in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI). She highlighted the rise of social media extremism and hate speech, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts to combat these challenges. Dad’s insights brought a nuanced perspective to the discussion, linking technological advancements to the growing need for robust digital rights frameworks. The inaugural session began with Dr Yaqoob Bangash, the festival’s founder, setting the tone for the event. He opened by introducing the theme for this year’s ThinkFest and paid tribute to literary giants who passed away in 2024. Following the inaugural address, the stage was set for the session titled ‘Can Muslims be Enlightened?’ Raza Rumi, the session’s moderator, introduced the distinguished historian, Dr Ayesha Jalal Rumi, began the dialogue by asking Dr Jalal about her latest book and the key ideas she explored within it. Dr Jalal explained that her work delves into the evolution of Muslim thought over the past four to five centuries, offering a nuanced perspective on how intellectual trends have shaped and reshaped the Muslim worldview across eras.

The discussion turned to the post-Mughal era and the intellectual responses of Muslims during that transformative period. Rumi posed questions about how Muslim thinkers grappled with new ideas in the aftermath of the empire’s decline. Dr Jalal remarked that while these intellectuals engaged with concepts in their own enlightened ways, they often lacked the means or circumstances to drive major innovations or transformative discoveries. This, she suggested, reflected both the challenges and limitations of the era. Dr Jalal shared insights from the first part of her book, which examines the societal shifts following the rebellion of 1857. She highlighted how the aftermath of this pivotal event reshaped the trajectory of Muslim thought and identity, forcing communities to reckon with profound changes in their political, social, and cultural landscapes. The session concluded with a thought-provoking exchange that left the audience reflecting on the historical and contemporary dimensions of enlightenment within Muslim societies.

Another session began with Mushtaq Khan introducing himself and delving into the history of Bangladesh, focusing on the role and evolution of the Awami League. He painted a vivid picture of Bangladesh’s political journey and its underlying complexities. He presented slides highlighting the ongoing crises in the country. These included analyses of the political and economic challenges Bangladesh faces today, particularly its delicate positioning between Chinese financial influence, often in the form of debt, and Indian political support.

He highlighted how external influences, such as China’s investments and India’s strategic political backing, created a unique pressure point for Bangladesh, forcing it to navigate a precarious balance between its neighbours.

As the session progressed, Mr Zaidi offered his concluding remarks, taking a broader view of the economic structures that supported Bangladesh’s growth over the past several decades. He emphasised the importance of sound economic policies, which played a pivotal role in transforming the country from an economically struggling nation to a model of sustained progress in South Asia.

The session concluded on a reflective note, as the speakers engaged with audience questions about the future of Bangladesh and its ability to maintain its current trajectory amidst rising regional and global tensions.