On July 13, a panel discussion on the theme “Digital platforms and information safety: current challenges and key solutions” was held as part of the 4th Shusha Global Media Forum.

The panel was attended by Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, media executives from different countries, experts on digital platforms, as well as local and foreign media representatives.

Farid Zeynalov, Chairman of the Board of the National Cybersecurity Agency, emphasized that information security is no longer just a technical issue, but has become a component of national security, as well as an integral part of social stability and development.

Karen Sutherland, a social media lecturer and researcher, mentioned that the rapid development of AI technologies has brought both new opportunities and serious risks to the information environment. According to her, the widespread use of “deepfake” technologies underscores the growing importance of verifying the accuracy of information.

Diana Ryan, Head of Government Relations & Public Policy for Eastern Europe at TikTok, emphasized that ensuring a safe digital environment for users remains a top priority for the platform.

Seamus Clancy, Head of Public Sector & NFP Sales (EMEA & LATAM) at LinkedIn, underlined that maintaining a safe information environment on professional social networks is built on transparency, accountability, and user trust.

The event featured an exchange of views on fostering a safe information environment on digital platforms, countering disinformation in the age of AI, and ensuring children’s online safety. Participants also discussed expanding international cooperation and increasing the accountability of digital platforms. Speakers noted that along with improving legal mechanisms, technological innovation and media literacy play a crucial role in addressing these challenges.