Fake news is here to stay, former CNN host Larry King

Sharjah, March 20, 2019 / Kabar/. Fake news is here to stay, former CNN host Larry King said in his video message, which was played during the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) in Sharjah.

Due to his health condition, 85-years old journalist sent a video message expressing his deep regret and apologies for not being able to join the most important event in Sharjah.

In his speech, Larry King said that governments around the world are struggling to find the best ways to communicate with their people.

“Social media and other technologies have given the public an outlet for their opinions. It has also given them a platform for misinformation and rumours, and fake news - and that is sad. This is why it is important for governments to strengthen their communication capacities to be transparent and to be closer to their people,” he said.

Larry King noted that now more than ever, each member of society can make a difference and play an important role to influence a group of citizens through social media.

“This means governments have to do more to motivate their people to do the right things for themselves and for society. Now I was invited to speak on the important topic of fake news, which is not new to human society. It has mocked the Cold War era too, but today it exists and affects us on a much larger scale due to advent of new technologies. On the bright side, governments can use the same technologies to strengthen communication channels with their people, build partnerships and trust. So, be ready, train your teams and keep the conversations going between the governments and the people," former TV host said in his video message adding that government communications is going to play an increasingly important role in good governance.

The two day International Government Communication Forum has started in Sharjah on March 21. The theme of this year’s forum is “‘Behavioural Change Towards Human Development”.

The forum, organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, brought together prominent figures and top officials from around the world, including heads of state and governments, thought leaders, directors of regional and international organizations, representatives of civil society and study and research centres, media personnel and students of mass communication and media.

The forum is held under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.