BREAKING: U.N Advice Members to Create Media and Information Policy base on Facts

 BY: News Peddlers 

António Guterres secretary-general of the United Nations

The United Nations urged member countries on Friday to develop media and information literacy policies that prioritize facts.

"I call on Member States to develop policies on media and information literacy that prioritize science, knowledge, and facts," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said at the end of the Global MIL Week in Abuja, Nigeria.

He invited this year's event attendees to help rebuild the trust that our societies require and that our collective future requires.

Mr. Guterres stated that trust is the foundation of every society, connecting people to their leaders.

It strengthens institutions and brings people together, he says, adding that when trust is eroded, societies crumble.

Speaking about the dangers of false information, Mr Guterres stated that at the height of COVID-19, misinformation caused suffering and even death.

As a result, the "Verified" initiative was launched to reach millions of people around the world with facts and science about the virus.

"That is why I have advocated for a global code of conduct that promotes integrity in public information while also improving media and information literacy." So people can make decisions based on facts rather than fiction," he explained.

"The huge success of the 2022 Global MIL Week in Abuja, coupled with the first-hand experience of our guests from all over the world, is a clear testament to the organizational ability and warmth of our people," said Lai Mohammed, the Minister of Information.

Despite security alerts issued by foreign missions in Nigeria, he praised Nigerian security agencies for ensuring the safety of participants as well as residents of the capital territory.

Mr Mohammed went on to say that Nigeria is committed to pursuing, supporting, and promoting MIL policies and programs "that will enhance the development of our citizens', particularly the youth's, capacities in the effective use of Media and Information Literacy."

"We also pledge to collaborate with UNESCO to establish a UNESCO International MIL institute in Nigeria and look forward to receiving the necessary assistance."