Ministers of information and communication in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states are scheduled to discuss a draft resolution on the role of media in countering terrorism on Wednesday. The resolution stresses that terrorism is a global and social rather than a religious phenomenon. The Director of Information Department at the OIC General Secretariat, Mrs. Maha Aqeel, said that the 11th Islamic Conference of Information Ministers hosted by the Kingdom is being held under the theme ‘New media to counter terrorism and Islamophobia' given the important role of media, particularly new media which can play a major role in combating international terrorism and highlighting the true image of Islam. Mrs. Aqeel added that ministers will address the issue of training specialized media professionals who are capable of dealing with terrorist acts and preparing developed media messages that contribute to fighting all forms and manifestations of terrorism. The conference is scheduled to discuss several issues and draft resolutions. Prominent among them are the role of the media in OIC member states in supporting the cause of Al-Quds and the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque. The agenda of the conference includes the adoption of a media strategy and its implementation mechanisms to confront Islamophobia; adoption of the OIC-2025 comprehensive media strategy; women empowerment in and through the media, as well as internal and external media action in partnership with OIC member states and international media institutions. The conference will also discuss support for the implementation of the special media program for Africa in order to emphasize its place and role in the Muslim World and launch similar programs in other regions. It will also consider draft resolution on launching the OIC satellite channel and supporting the work of OIC joint Islamic media action institutions as well as the establishment of an international award for the media and journalists. The conference will also deliberate on ways to strengthen the OIC's media visibility in championing cultural exchange, development and peace and boosting the capacity and productivity of, and cooperation among, journalists and media institutions in the OIC member states. The conference is expected to issue a ministerial final communiqué and the Jeddah Declaration at the end of its work.
