On World Press Freedom Day, Maat Issues a Study on Impact of Media Misinformation on Political Participation in Middle East and North Africa In the Middle East and North Africa

Okeil: Disinformation represents a serious threat to press freedom and quality of information received by public

Islam Fawki: We call for adoption of ethical journalistic practices based on principles of transparency, objectivity and accuracy

In light of Maat for Peace, Development, and Human Rights commitment to supporting democracy, and on occasion of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, it is issuing a new study titled "Media Disinformation and Its Impact on Political Participation in Middle East and North Africa." The goal of this study is to emphasize the dangers and consequences of media misinformation on political engagement.

This Study highlights that social networking sites have become fertile ground for the dissemination of fake news and rumors. These platforms wield significant influence over public opinion by spreading falsehoods, displaying fabricated information, distorting facts, and manipulating public discourse to serve specific agendas. By focusing on certain issues while ignoring others, the aim is to divert attention and narrow thinking in a particular direction that benefits one party in electoral competition.

According to this Study, misinformation targets various individuals, groups, and legislative processes. Prominent politicians, journalists, and activists often become targets, intending to force them to resign from their positions or cease their political activities. This not only diminishes political consensus within society but also hampers public policy advancements. Moreover, misinformation directly affects the individuals targeted, undermining political participation and eroding democratic principles.

Ayman Okeil, a Human Rights Expert and Chairman of Maat, underscores that freedom of press is a fundamental value of democracy and human rights. It guarantees citizens the right to access information and obtain a comprehensive understanding of events, enabling them to form informed opinions. However, the current era witnesses an alarming rise in disinformation, posing a grave threat to press freedom and the quality of information available to the public.

Islam Fawki, Director of Democracy Support Unit at Maat, emphasizes the need to raise awareness about dangers of media misinformation and promote ethical journalistic practices based on transparency, objectivity, and accuracy. Fawki also calls upon governments and media institutions to support and safeguard press freedom, ensuring an environment conducive to free and responsible provision of information.