Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 19–20 August, a two-day training titled “Media Literacy for Youth as an Effective Tool to Counter Radicalization and Terrorism” took place in Urgench.

The event was organized by the Journalism Retraining Center of Uzbekistan, which serves as the implementing partner of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, with the support of the Office of the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The training brought together journalists, bloggers, and representatives of non-governmental organizations. The sessions focused on strengthening skills in detecting disinformation and promoting a responsible approach to working with media. Participants discussed the importance of critical thinking, fact-checking, the use of digital tools, and ensuring cybersecurity as key elements in countering destructive content. During practical sessions, they exchanged ideas for future cooperation.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Antti Karttunen, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, stressed the importance of media literacy among young people in today’s digital age:

“Developing media literacy is not only about recognizing fake news, but also about building critical thinking and a responsible approach to information from any source, at any age,” noted Antti Karttunen.

He also highlighted the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to combating terrorism and radicalization, in which media literacy is viewed as an essential component of preventive measures. This approach is grounded in respect for human rights, the principles of the rule of law, and inclusive cooperation between state institutions, civil society, and the media — key factors in shaping an informed youth resilient to extremist ideas.

The training was carried out as part of a broader project supporting counterterrorism efforts within the politico-military dimension of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. The event formed part of a series of initiatives being implemented across different regions of the country to create a safer and more informed digital environment for young people.

Similar trainings will also be conducted in other regions of Uzbekistan.