Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2024: Championing Critical Thinking in a Digital Era
Event Dates: October 24 – October 31
As the world marks Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week, this year’s observance emphasizes the growing need for digital literacy in an increasingly complex online environment. Under the theme, *“Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information,”* the week underscores the vital role of critical thinking skills as digital platforms transform the landscape of information sharing and consumption.
Hosted in Amman, Jordan, the event brings together global participants to navigate the “new digital frontiers of information,” reflecting on how digital literacy fosters a more resilient and inclusive information environment. With the spread of generative AI, the line between human and machine-generated content has blurred, making it essential for individuals to develop skills to identify credible information and responsibly shape digital spaces.

Background and the Role of Media Literacy
The United Nations first established Global MIL Week to promote informed, fact-based communication, urging for accessible, multilingual, and science-grounded content to bridge digital divides and address data inequalities worldwide. The annual observance serves as a platform to assess and celebrate strides toward “Media and Information Literacy for All,” a vision empowering individuals to discern reliable information and engage thoughtfully with digital content.
In today’s information-rich world, where some people face information scarcity while others are inundated by content, MIL offers essential tools to access, evaluate, and create media responsibly. It encourages individuals to explore questions on online rights, ethical information use, and how media engagement can support equality, intercultural understanding, and peace.
Through educational resources, policy frameworks, and assessment tools, UNESCO continues to advance media literacy competencies globally. This week, MIL Week 2024 reaffirms the importance of informed public discourse and an empowered society that can critically interact with today’s digital ecosystem.