TRENDS Research and Advisory concluded its participation in the 3rd edition of the Global Media Congress with a number of dialogue sessions and AI-enhanced knowledge and activities and events that continued for three days. These rich events culminated in the launch of the book “The Little Researcher,” in collaboration between TRENDS and Majid Magazine, and the release of the study “The 2024 State of Scams in the United Arab Emirates.” in partnership with the UAE Cybersecurity Council.
TRENDS’ program of activities during the Congress was rich and diverse, reflecting its research vision and global outreach. The Center organized four panel discussions addressing topics such as media, news platforms, global research, AI, and cybersecurity. Also, TRENDS signed ten media and research agreements with both local and international institutions.
The activities drew the Congress audience to the TRENDS pavilion, which received visits from a number of ministers, officials, and participating entities. Visitors praised TRENDS’ forward-looking research efforts, which analyze the present and contribute to shaping the future with insights from distinguished experts and distinguished national talent.
Main Stage Sessions
On the final day of the Global Media Congress, TRENDS participated in two main stage sessions. In the first one, titled “What Will Media Look Like Next,” Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research and Advisory, participated as a speaker, where he talked about the transformative role of AI in reshaping the media industry. He pointed to developments such as AI-powered newsrooms and virtual presenters. He also discussed the decline of traditional media, and how audiences are increasingly attracted short, video-based formats, which fit with modern consumption habits. Dr. Al-Ali cited recent research showing that content under 90 seconds is the most effective for today’s audiences.
Dr. Al-Ali also touched upon the societal impact of digital technology, including its influence on family interactions and social behaviors. He called for proactive measures to address the ethical and social challenges posed by AI and social media platforms.
The second contribution was led by Elyazia Al-Hosani, Media Director at TRENDS, who moderated a key panel discussion of the Congress that highlighted algorithms, echo chambers, and content management. During this session, she underscored the importance of strengthening media literacy to address the challenges posed by today’s complex digital ecosystem.
“The Little Researcher” Book Launch
In a pioneering step to encourage scientific research among young generations, TRENDS Research and Advisory, in collaboration with Majid magazine, launched a new book highlighting the importance of scientific research and knowledge as fundamental elements in building civilizations. The book also fosters values of ambition and patriotism among young readers.
Titled The Little Researcher, the book tells an exciting adventure story set in the world of science and history. It was written by Elyazia Al-Hosani, Media Director at TRENDS. The story takes readers on a journey through time to the heart of the United Arab Emirates, where they learn about its development and rich history, from the desert to the space age. The narrative follows three friends embarking on an adventure within a book, exploring the significance of scientific research in building civilizations and advancing societies.
Elyazia Al-Hosani emphasized that the book aims to stimulate children’s creative thinking and interest in scientific research, while also promoting teamwork and collaboration. The book features illustrations and exciting events that make the educational journey both enjoyable and inspiring.
To further enhance its network of strategic media partnerships, TRENDS signed a memorandum of cooperation with Majid magazine to produce meaningful research and knowledge content, and to support collaboration in promoting research culture among youth.
Panel Discussion
The final day of the event included a panel discussion on the recent developments within the BRICS group and the impact of its expansion on global geopolitical and economic dynamics.
The discussion, held at the TRENDS pavilion at the Congress, was titled “Geopolitics of Multi-Alignment: BRICS Expansion and the Rise of Middle Powers”. The session explored the latest changes in BRICS and its growing influence on the global stage.
Researchers and academics participating in the session emphasized that the expansion of BRICS represents a pivotal shift in the redistribution of global economic power. With the group accounting for over 35% of global GDP based on purchasing power parity, BRICS provides an effective platform for promoting economic integration among emerging economies.
They emphasized that the BRICS plays a pivotal role in shaping the world’s economic and political future, and its expansion will enhance its status as a significant global power.
Moderated by Sultan Majid, Deputy Head of TRENDS Dubai Sector and Director of the Global Barometer Department, the panel discussion featured panelists Dr. Natalia Abramova, Dean of the School of Public Policy and Management at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration; Dr. Khalifa Al-Suwaidi, Research Fellow at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy; Dr. Serhat S. Çubukçuoğlu, Senior Researcher and Head of TRENDS Virtual Office in Turkey; and Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris, Acting Director and Senior Research Fellow at Rabdan Security and Defence Institute.
The panel addressed key themes, including the economic impact of BRICS expansion. Discussions highlighted efforts to boost intra-BRICS trade, develop joint financing mechanisms, and expand markets. The administrative and political dimensions of BRICS’ expansion were also explored, focusing on the group’s role in reshaping the global system, enhancing emerging economies, building shared administrative structures, and overcoming challenges and opportunities associated with such expansion.
The panelists provided valuable insights into recent developments within BRICS, their impact on the global economy and geopolitics, and the challenges and opportunities ahead. They also offered a comprehensive overview of recent economic developments in Russia and their implications for Russia’s role in BRICS, highlighting the potential impacts of BRICS expansion on global economic balances.
Graduation Ceremony
On the sidelines of the Global Media Congress, TRENDS celebrated the graduation of a new cohort of trainees from the UAE Media Council who have completed a course on developing media strategies.
Additionally, TRENDS signed a cooperation agreement with Business Time, establishing a strategic partnership in economic research and studies that supports the dissemination of scientific content through media platforms.
