Youth Pioneer Society Explores Media’s Role in Shaping Public Opinion

The Youth Pioneer Society held the second discussion session of the eighth Young Parliamentarian Program, under the theme “Media and Public Opinion.” The panel brought together leading media experts — Ms. Eman Marhoon, Dr. Lulwa Boodlamah, and Ms. Samah Allam, along with youth participants from the program.

The session aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the media’s pivotal role in shaping thought, influencing decision-making, and reflecting the dynamic relationship between media and the public. Discussions highlighted how this relationship drives the formation of public opinion, especially amid rapid digital transformation.

Speakers explored the concept of media “soft power” - its ability to influence society through the selection and framing of issues — and examined the growing impact of digital “trends” as modern tools that steer audience perceptions and shape collective awareness.

They emphasized that trends have evolved beyond fleeting online moments to become powerful mechanisms for unifying public sentiment around specific topics. The panel also discussed the influence of digital content creators and their responsibility to use their platforms to promote awareness, integrity, and social harmony while avoiding misinformation and sensationalism.

Participants noted that audiences today are not passive consumers but active contributors to the media landscape, shaping narratives through interaction and participation across digital platforms.

The session concluded with key recommendations, including enhancing media literacy and critical thinking among youth, encouraging responsible media initiatives that advance social causes, and upholding professional and ethical standards in media practices. These collective efforts, the speakers affirmed, are essential to nurturing an informed public opinion that embodies Bahrain’s values, identity, and progressive vision.