Pakistan Leads the Unanimous Adoption of Resolution on Countering Disinformation at UNESCO

UNESCO Executive Board Unanimously Adopts Pakistan-Led Resolution to Combat Disinformation and Promote Freedom of Expression

At the 220th Session of the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris, Pakistan successfully led the unanimous adoption of a resolution titled “Countering Disinformation for the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Expression and Access to Information.” The resolution, co-sponsored by over 50 Member States, addresses the growing global challenge of disinformation, misinformation, and hate speech, which have been intensified by the rapid development of digital platforms and communication technologies.

This landmark resolution is the first at UNESCO to specifically focus on tackling these issues, building on previous related decisions adopted by the UN General Assembly and the Human Rights Council, where Pakistan has also played a leading role. Pakistan’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, expressed gratitude to all Member States for their support in reaching a consensus, which positions UNESCO as a central player in a comprehensive approach to combating disinformation while promoting freedom of expression and access to information.

The resolution emerged from broad-based consultations and calls on UNESCO’s Director-General to provide updates on the organization’s initiatives to counter disinformation on digital platforms and to present recommendations for enhancing UNESCO’s role in this area. During the session, many delegations highlighted the shared concern of disinformation and the need for collective efforts by Member States and stakeholders to address it.

Pakistan, currently serving as Vice-President from the Asia-Pacific region on the Executive Board, has taken a proactive stance in using UNESCO’s platform to address this pressing issue, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression and ensuring access to accurate information.