د . إAEDSRر . س

Malta President Sounds Powerful Fake News And Disruptive Technology Warning In Final Republic Day Speech

Article Featured Image

Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca delivers her final Republic Day speech. Photo: Facebook

Malta’s President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca used what will probably be her final Republic Day speech to warn of the dangers posed by social media and the growing digital divide.

“The ethics of those who make use of social media, and those working in the diverse sectors of the media, have become more important, in an ever changing world,” she said this morning. “Modern technological progress has led to real time news reports, which are available from everywhere on the earth.”

“Today, anyone can presume to be some kind of journalist, by passing on his or her views through modern means of communication. Unfortunately, some individuals abuse these means of communication, without taking into account the consequences of their actions. The media, therefore, shoulders a higher responsibility to report the truth.”

She warned that “fake news” has become the order of the day, with the risk that people believe it and become alienated from the truth.

“I therefore urge those who use social media, to be respectful in the way they communicate their diverse views,” she said. “I also urge all of those who are in public life to continue to be measured and respectful in the ways that they use such means of communication, because it is their responsibility to set a good example.”

“On the other hand, I encourage the professional members of the media to continue strengthening their services, by working together. This is essential, to maintain the highest levels of journalistic ethics and to overcome the challenges being posed by sensationalism, prejudice, half-truths, and outright lies.”

Mlcp Binance

President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca signs a MOU with crypto trading giant Binance

In her speech, Coleiro Preca also urged the authorities to ensure that its quest for Malta to become a hub for the regulation and development of disruptive technologies does not presage the creation of a ‘digital knowledge divide’.

“A strong democracy depends upon the people having the necessary knowledge, to fully participate in fostering the common good,” she said. “I am glad to see that our country is at the forefront in applying innovative technology, and it is rewarding to see thousands of people from all over the world gather in Malta to discuss the workings of this technological progress, through which we are creating new niches in our economy.”

“However, I believe it is also the time to assess the knowledge and the potential of our people in this area. We must ensure that, in the process of this necessary and important technological expansion, we do not create a new social exclusion, the so-called digital knowledge divide.”

“On the other hand, it is essential for us to ensure that our democracy is not manipulated, from behind the scenes, by corporations that transform the intimate details of our lives into a commercial product.”

“A manipulated democracy is false and dangerous, because it distinguishes between a superior class with knowledge at its disposal, and a sub-class that carries on a lower quality of life, because it lacks the necessary knowledge.”

Mlcp Republic Day

After touching on several other topics – from educators’ rights and bullying to constitutional reform and social justice – Coleiro Preca sounded a farewell note.

“I must admit that I have felt privileged and honoured to have this opportunity to be able to share with you, as one of you, these reflections about the things I truly believe in,” she said.

“This has been a privilege, bestowed upon me thanks to the representatives of the people through Parliament, where for the first time the nomination of President of Malta was reached through unanimous agreement, both by Government and Opposition, notwithstanding my coming from the Government benches.”

“I hope this consensus will continue for my successors, because the President of our nation should have no party but should serve the people, with loyalty and with a conscience that goes beyond any desire for popularity.”

READ NEXT: Jum Ir-Repubblika: Here’s The Story Behind One Of The Most Important Dates In Maltese History

Tim is interested in the rapid evolution of human society and is passionate about justice, human rights and cutting-edge political debates. You can follow him on Instagram or Twitter/X at @timdiacono or reach out to him at [email protected]

You may also love

View All