At the 2025 Paris Peace Forum QatarDebate discussed the intricate role of digital media in global disputes. The discussion ‘Mediator or Firestarter? The Dual Role of Digital Media in Conflict Resolution’ explored the paradox of digital media as an instrument of war and an instrument of peace.
Held at the Musée de l’Homme and Musée de la Marine, the discussion brought together global experts to explore the impact of digital media in conflict zones. Digital platforms, such as social media, can promote peace by amplifying marginalized voices, but they can also exacerbate tensions through the spread of misinformation and hate. The session tackled how to manage these complexities in an age of widespread digital communication.
Ahmad Al-Naimi, QatarDebate’s Chief Envoy, moderated the panel, emphasizing the fine line digital media walks between helping resolve conflicts and inflaming them. He discussed the potential of digital platforms to expose truths and support peacebuilding while also highlighting how they are increasingly used to manipulate public opinion and deepen divisions.
The panel also explored how digital media has emerged as a critical tool in shaping public opinion and mobilizing global audiences for causes such as human rights and peace. Sawsan Chebli, former Berlin State Secretary for Civic and International Affairs, emphasized the importance of digital platforms in connecting communities, especially when mainstream media neglects their stories. In conflict zones, platforms like Twitter and Facebook often serve as lifelines, offering real-time updates and allowing people to share their experiences with the world.
However, the darker side of digital media was also discussed. In areas like Gaza, social media has helped raise awareness but has also been a space for manipulation, with content being suppressed or manipulated through shadowbanning or deranking.
The key issue raised during the forum was how to ensure digital media acts as a constructive force in peacebuilding. The conversation underscored the necessity for global cooperation to safeguard truth and accountability online. Experts agreed that combating misinformation, promoting digital literacy, and creating platforms for open dialogue are crucial steps to make digital media a force for peace.
QatarDebate continues to lead discussions on the importance of informed debate and the responsible use of digital platforms. The organization is committed to providing a space for young people to engage with experts and shape the future of global peace efforts.
QatarDebate has long been at the forefront of promoting debate and discussion as tools for peace. By organizing events like the Paris Peace Forum session, the organization helps foster a deeper understanding of global issues among young people and encourages them to use digital media responsibly. The discussion reaffirmed QatarDebate’s mission of leveraging digital tools to bridge divides and build global understanding.
Through events like this, QatarDebate aims to empower future leaders to make informed decisions and contribute to global peace efforts. The organization’s commitment to open dialogue and informed debate plays a crucial role in shaping how digital media can be used to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
QatarDebate is the national debating organization for Qatar, founded in 2008 by Qatar Foundation. It is dedicated to promoting free thought, open discussion, and constructive debate both in Qatar and internationally. QatarDebate organizes debates, workshops, and competitions to foster critical thinking and dialogue, while also supporting the national debating team in international tournaments.
The Paris Peace Forum 2025 underscored the importance of having digital media for conflict resolution as well as exacerbating division. The QatarDebate sessions intend to shape the next generation of leaders to channel digital media towards peaceful ends for the betterment of international relations.
