Amman, April 20 (Petra) -- Minister of Government Communication and Government Spokesperson Mohammad Momani said the second National Media and Information Literacy Strategy (2026-2029) represents a qualitative shift in strengthening media awareness and enhancing society’s ability to critically engage with information and the digital environment, noting that it has direct government backing.

Momani made the remarks while chairing a meeting of the National Media and Information Literacy Team at the Ministry of Government Communication and Information, with participation from senior representatives of relevant ministries, national institutions, and specialized bodies.

He said the strategy is part of the broader public sector modernization process and aims to establish an integrated national framework for media and information literacy.

Momani added that Jordan’s experience in this field is considered advanced at the regional level, supported by the development of national policies and expanded partnerships with academic institutions, civil society organizations, and international entities.

He noted that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) classifies media and information literacy pathways into four stages, adding that Jordan has reached the final stage of the third level and is approaching the fourth, which would institutionalize these competencies across education, media, and public policy sectors.

The minister said the strategy includes targeted programs to enhance critical thinking skills, integrate media literacy into school and university curricula, build the capacities of media professionals, and raise public awareness in line with digital transformation.

Addressing hate speech, Momani said the strategy prioritizes tackling harmful digital content, describing hate speech as one of the most serious threats to social cohesion, particularly amid the expansion of digital platforms.

He stressed the importance of distinguishing between legitimate differences of opinion and the use of digital platforms to spread hate or target segments of society, describing such practices as inconsistent with societal values.

Momani said efforts to address hate speech rely on a preventive approach focused on strengthening individual awareness, particularly among youth, to differentiate between credible and misleading content, while promoting responsible digital citizenship based on respect for diversity and pluralism. He added that legal measures will be enforced against those who misuse digital platforms to spread abuse and misinformation.

He called on participating entities to enhance coordination in implementing the strategy, each within its respective mandate, stressing the importance of designating liaison officers to ensure effective execution and accelerate progress.

For his part, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Government Communication Zaid Nawaisah said the Cabinet approved the strategy under Decision No. 5693 dated November 16, 2025, followed by the formation of the National Media and Information Literacy Team.

He added that the team is tasked with overseeing implementation through periodic meetings, setting priorities in line with the established timeline, and issuing an annual report to ensure transparency and public accountability.

//Petra// AJ