Qatar’s media sector must enhance collaboration with security agencies to effectively combat disinformation and emerging information threats, speakers emphasized during a recent panel discussion. The event, organised by the Qatar Press Centre (QPC) in partnership with the Joan bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies, aimed to address the evolving challenges facing media outlets amid the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and information warfare.
The panel convened participants from the seventh National Defence Course at the National Defence College, along with editors-in-chief of local newspapers and representatives from government and security bodies. Discussions focused on the impact of AI on media narratives and the need for a unified approach to safeguard national security and maintain public trust.
Faisal al-Mudahka, editor-in-chief of Gulf Times, described the current media landscape as a “war of narratives,” highlighting the repeated smear campaigns Qatar has encountered in recent years. He noted that while such campaigns have employed similar tactics over time, their sophistication has increased with the advent of AI technologies. Al-Mudahka cited examples of Iranian-affiliated entities leveraging AI tools to advance their narratives and target Gulf countries in the context of regional conflicts.
The discussion also explored the ongoing digital transformation of traditional newspapers. Al-Mudahka pointed out that this transition varies significantly depending on the ownership structures and resources of media organisations, many of which were established before the widespread use of websites and digital platforms.
Jaber al-Harmi, vice-chairman of the QPC, stressed the critical role of media institutions in protecting Qatar’s national interests and countering misleading or false information. He underscored the importance of media in fostering accurate public discourse and supporting security efforts amid a rapidly changing information environment.
The panel’s findings underline the increasing challenges posed by technological advances and highlight the necessity for coordinated strategies between media and security agencies to effectively confront disinformation and preserve the integrity of Qatar’s information landscape.