IGCF 2015 Experts: Future of Digital Government Communication Relies on Governments' Adaptation of New Technologies

Sharjah-UAE: 24 February, 2015 – The future of digital government communication in the context of technologies, applications and services offered to the public and governments was examined today by a panel of experts on day two of the fourth International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2015).

Moderated by Rima Maktabi, TV Journalist and Reporter at Al Arabiya News, the session, titled ‘The future of digital government communication’, was led by Jared Cohen, Founder and Director of Google Ideas, Hugh Pinney, Vice President News EMEA at Getty Images, Ben Hammersley, journalist and researcher on social networking tools, and Muna AbuSulayman, presenter at MBC.

Discussing measures that need to be taken with immediate effect in order to promote effective digital government communication in the future, panellists reviewed the impact of digital government communication on the cultural, social and economic development of nations.

Jared Cohen said: “Different technological tools connect people to information and other resources. The responsibility of the government is to ensure feedback and create platforms to connect effectively with its people.”

He added: “We are in the era of social media. The next generation is around the Internet of Things. Today, everybody is reachable and the main challenge as we become more connected is the natural concern of protecting our privacy and security. The government plays a big part in protecting our data as everything will become even more accessible.”

Hugh Pinney said: “We have the responsibility to promote truth and accuracy. We need to conform to the values of authenticity and credibility. Governments, meanwhile, are still communicating neutral messages to all audience instead of tailoring specific messages for each segment of the society in order to engage all segments and build real communication that achieves progress.“

He added: “The future of government communication depends on the will to adopt a two- way dialogue. Governments need to listen and filter the information before communicating anything to its people. And, in order to be credible, leaders need to accept criticism and react to it properly.

Ben Hammersley said: “It is important for governments to be part of the ongoing conversation. Tools for governments are important to use properly - which is why I urge governments to go to where the people are talking. This can be achieved by using the right tools, such as social media, and being part of the conversation.“

He added: “Governments need to work on reducing risks and providing security to their people by proactively using communication tools to protect future generations from terrorism groups. This can be done by engaging with the youth and influencing them by example.”

Muna Abu Sulayman said: “The future of government communication should be built on a new common denominator, which is high awareness of people’s needs, fears and aspirations. The more people are able to express their thoughts and opinions to the government, the easier the job is for the latter. Instead of oppressing opinions, governments need to approach the public and adopt an open discussion that builds trust and confidence and drives both to draw a better future. “

Organised under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the two-day International Government Communication Forum concludes today at the Expo Centre Sharjah.