Sawab Centre using Instagram to counter extremist propaganda on social media

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Sawab Centre using Instagram to counter extremist propaganda on social media An Abu Dhabi-based centre set up to counter extremist propaganda online has launched an Instagram page. The Sawab Centre is a joint initiative by the Governments of the United Arab Emirates and the United States to fight Daesh’s extremist ideology digitally. In launching its Instagram account, the centre said it aims to expand its reach and deliver its message to a broader audience. Instagram is widely popular among users in the 15 – 35 year-old age group. In a statement, the centre said: “Instagram is also the true embodiment of the phrase ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ due to its appealing visual format. The photos and short videos shared on this important platform help deliver messages visually and allow users to interact and share these messages. “Daesh makes extensive use of social media platforms, both public and encrypted. The purpose of Daesh’s posts and its twisted propaganda is to promote the organisation’s so-called ‘achievements’ by sensationalising acts of terror conducted in Syria and Iraq and around the region and the world.” RELATED: Thousands follow UAE centre countering ISIL propaganda on social media The Sawab Centre says its objective is to amplify the voices of moderation against Daesh by using social media platforms and allowing the silent majority to express their opinions. “Due to the great influence that social media has on public opinion, especially among youth, the centre aims to expand its fight against the radical and extremist ideologies of Daesh and any other likeminded organisation by leveraging various social media platforms,” it said. The Sawab Center launched its Twitter account (@SawabCenter) in July 2015. Since its inception, the centre said it has applied an editorial policy that focuses on using a credible and balanced approach with the goal of revealing the truth behind Daesh’s lies and propaganda. The centre also delivers a mix of news, analysis and religious content in addition to visual content, such as photos, short videos and infographics. In addition, the Sawab Center said it regularly launches targeted campaigns that counteract extremist views and ideologies. The most recent campaign focused on “National Pride” and was meant to showcase the uniqueness and variety of Middle Eastern nations. It highlighted sentiments of pride in one’s country, and also aimed to counteract the kind of radical thinking that seeks to demolish borders and only hinders the progress and prosperity of nations. Since the centre was established less than six months ago, the number of views of its campaigns already surpassing 420 million. news@7days.ae   Read the original story at: Sawab Centre using Instagram to counter extremist propaganda on social media