Tashkent Hosts Discussion on Media Literacy as a Tool to Protect Youth from Radicalization

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Media literacy is increasingly recognized as a key tool in preventing radicalization and violent extremism among young people.

These issues were addressed at a regional roundtable organized by the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan in collaboration with the Center for Retraining Journalists.

Journalists, civil society representatives, researchers, and young professionals from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan participated in the event.

Participants discussed practical approaches to developing critical information perception, including the creation of counter-narratives, fact-checking tools, and the use of artificial intelligence technologies to analyze online content. Special attention was given to gender-sensitive strategies aimed at supporting young women, emphasizing that media literacy enhances their ability to engage actively and safely in public life.

“In today’s digital environment, distinguishing reliable information from disinformation is increasingly challenging. Youth, as the most active internet users, need critical thinking skills. Media literacy should become a reliable protective tool for them,” stressed Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan.

The discussions also highlighted successful regional initiatives in media literacy and explored cooperation between media outlets and civil society organizations to strengthen youth resilience.

As a result of the roundtable, a regional network of experts was established to facilitate the exchange of experience in preventing violent extremism and terrorism.

Concluding the event, participants emphasized the importance of continuing joint educational programs and expanding youth and journalist access to resources for fact-checking and safe engagement with media.

Previously, the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan, together with the Center for Retraining Journalists, conducted a series of media literacy trainings across the country’s regions. These initiatives aimed to enhance journalists’ and bloggers’ skills in identifying disinformation and analyzing fake content.