Media role in shaping narrative discussed

Islamabad: Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) President Jauhar Saleem has said that recently the narrative has become a strategic tool of influence and resistance.

Jauhar was giving his opening remarks at an in-house expert session on “The role of media in shaping narrative during turbulent times” organised here by the IRS.

Leading journalists and media professionals assessed the media’s power to either stabilise or destabilise a country’s strategic landscape.

Jauhar cited the recent May 2025 standoff between India and Pakistan, where Pakistan’s fact-based and transparent media strategy was internationally recognised by outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Al Jazeera for de-escalating tensions.

In contrast, he said, India’s media came under criticism for amplifying disinformation and speculative claims, fueling the risks of escalation.