The College of Media at the University of Baghdad inaugurated the opening session of its 16th scientific conference today, titled “Media and Societal Issues.” The conference, held from November 21 to 22, 2023, witnesses the participation of researchers from Iraq and from various Arab countries. Notable figures, including Dr. Hisham Al-Alawi, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Planning, and Dr. Yassin Al-Ithawi, a member of the Parliament, attended the event.
The conference aims to address the role of communication media in various societal issues, encompassing political, economic, cultural, and social aspects, along with the media’s role in exacerbating different crises. The dean of the college emphasized the importance of the media’s role as a crucial partner in various societal sectors, highlighting its significance in sustainable development and supporting positive activities.
Dr. Taher stressed the unique challenges facing researchers in the field of media, urging them to discuss the real impact of media on society. The conference covers a wide range of topics, including the digital revolution, social media, and their impact on societal issues.
The conference received over 50 research papers and abstracts, with 40 selected for presentation. Additionally, eight researchers from prestigious Arab countries participated in a remote session through Zoom. The event is anticipated to be a center for distinguished scientific activities, reflecting the college’s commitment to scientific progress and knowledge exchange.
The conference addresses various topics, including the role of journalism in nation-building, media coverage of minority issues, the social responsibility of journalism, and the functions of journalism in digital societies. The topics also extend to public relations, advertising, electronic media, and the societal impact of new communication environments.
The opening session highlighted the commitment of the college to advancing scientific knowledge and the exchange of ideas, with the hope that the conference will contribute to the development of Iraqi media environment.