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Media and information literacy (MIL) has been increasingly recognized in Uzbekistan as a crucial tool for fostering a modern and resilient society. In an era where disinformation and fake content are increasingly prevalent – amplified by digital platforms and artificial intelligence – citizens require skills to critically navigate and assess information.

On March 3, 2025, key stakeholders from across Uzbekistan gathered for a pivotal multistakeholder workshop aimed at shaping the future of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in the country. Organized by UNESCO as part of its “Empowering the Government and Citizens of Uzbekistan by Strengthening Access to Information, Accountability of Institutions, and Media Competence” (AIM) program, the workshop brought together representatives from government institutions, universities, media, civil society organizations, and the academic research community.

In today’s digital era, the ability to critically engage with media and information has become more essential than ever. With the rapid spread of disinformation and the increasing influence of artificial intelligence, equipping citizens with the skills to assess and navigate information responsibly had become a priority. Uzbekistan recognized MIL as a crucial tool for building a resilient society that could harness the benefits of information while mitigating its risks. 

The workshop was led by international expert Maarit Jaakkola, PhD, Associate Professor and co-director of Nordicom at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden. With extensive experience in MIL policy and research, she guided participants through key concepts, real-world examples, and interactive discussions to help them identify opportunities and challenges in implementing a national MIL strategy. By the end of the session, participants were well-prepared to collaborate with government institutions and UNESCO in developing a comprehensive and inclusive approach to MIL in Uzbekistan. 

"Media and Information Literacy is key to empowering citizens to navigate the digital world responsibly and strengthen our society. I believe that this training plays a vital role in this process, as it equips individuals with the skills they need to critically assess information and make informed decisions", - Beruniy Alimov, Director and Founder of the New Media Education Center.

The increasing accessibility of information through digital platforms and new technologies had presented both opportunities and challenges. While young people and citizens in general had unprecedented access to knowledge, the need for a structured and strategic approach to MIL had never been more pressing. Striking a balance between harnessing the potential of media and mitigating its risks required the involvement of diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, media professionals, educators, content creators, and civil society organizations. 


 

This workshop was a significant step towards building an informed and media-literate society in Uzbekistan. By equipping citizens with the skills to engage critically and responsibly with digital information, the country not only strengthened its democratic institutions but also empowered individuals to make informed decisions in an increasingly complex media landscape.