Four major topics discussed at the retreat

An intensive brainstorming attended by representatives of each sector, including Arabic and English language newspapers, broadcast media and digital media as well as government communications officials, academics, and members of the youth councils, focused on four main themes. The National Media Council will work to establish an integrated system that includes all media stakeholders, and tackle mediarelated issues along the following four major themes: > The role of media in promoting the UAE’s position globally: Under this theme, the NMC will work on developing joint frameworks and initiatives to strengthen the UAE’s status, support its soft power and consolidate its image as a major player contributing to the promotion of security, peace, stability, development and human civilisation. > Technology in the service of traditional and new media: A group of experts and decision makers from across the media sector will develop innovative programmes to employ technology in the service of traditional and new media in order to develop rich and diverse content that meets the needs of all segments of society, and highlights the country’s cultural achievements. > Evaluation of the current media sector and its aspirations: A team of representatives from various sectors will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the current state of the media sector, examining its compatibility with future aspirations and developing frameworks to take the sector into the future. > The role of UAE nationals as a key talent in the future of the UAE media: This theme will be tackled by several groups that include the youth among their ranks. These groups will work to develop a framework that engages young nationals and empowers them to assume their critical role in the media sector and the future industry.