Shaikh Moeenul Hack, the Chairman of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), has emphasized the importance of social media in shaping national unity in Guyana. During the opening of the ERC’s National Symposium, he cautioned that a single viral post could either promote healing or exacerbate ethnic divisions. The symposium, themed “Guyana at 60: Unity, Diversity and the Path Forward,” aims to analyze the historical context of multi-ethnic relations in the country and develop actionable recommendations for policymakers.
Hack highlighted that Guyana is entering a significant developmental phase characterized by economic growth and demographic changes, alongside the influence of unregulated digital platforms. He noted that the way Guyanese communicate and form political opinions has changed dramatically over the past decade, often driven by algorithms that favor sensationalism and division.
In his address, Hack stated, “In an age where a single social media post can spark unity or stir deep division, our individual digital footprint is of paramount importance.” He urged citizens to foster a culture of love, respect, and tolerance, emphasizing that respect should be a daily civic responsibility for all smartphone users.
The ERC outlined three core mandates to promote social cohesion:
- Algorithmic Responsibility: Encouraging digital creators and users to avoid inflammatory content on social media platforms.
- Data-Driven Peacebuilding: Using symposium findings to create metrics that monitor social harmony and identify potential conflicts.
- Systemic Multi-Institutional Effort: Advocating for uniform anti-discrimination policies across various sectors.
Hack concluded by urging the audience to consider the kind of society they wish to build for future generations, emphasizing the need for intentional efforts towards peace and stability. He noted that as Guyana gains international attention for its resources, the strength of its infrastructure is dependent on the social cohesion of its people. The ERC aims to encourage the use of digital platforms as tools for national integration, marking the 60th anniversary of independence as a pivotal moment for a unified and digitally aware nation.
Source: hgptv.com
