Swiss Ambassador Urges Critical Thinking as AI Fuels Both Facts and Fake News

Swiss Ambassador to Nepal Dr. Danielle Meuwly has stressed the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), warning that the technology has the power to amplify both accurate information and misinformation.

Speaking at the 41st edition of the MediaTalk series, organized by the Faculty of Journalism at St. Xavier's College, Ambassador Meuwly said the rapid growth of AI and digital platforms has transformed the way information is produced and consumed, placing greater responsibility on journalists, content creators, and social media users.

"We live in a time where information is abundant—instant and powerful. Whether as journalists, content creators, or social media users, we all shape public narratives. AI can amplify both facts and fake news, making fact-checking essential, especially for young people," she said.

Emphasizing the role of responsible communication in a democratic society, the ambassador urged young people to uphold integrity and critical thinking while engaging with digital content.

The event was held under the theme "Journalists vs. Content Creators: Complementing or Competing in Shaping Public Narratives."

During the panel discussion, Umesh Chauhan, Group Editor at Himalaya TV and Onlinekhabar.com, noted that young audiences are increasingly consuming short-form content instead of detailed journalistic reports. He encouraged journalism students to gain newsroom experience to better understand the role of professional journalism in promoting democracy.

Content creator and cultural critic Suraj Subedi said content creators can also serve as watchdogs by critically evaluating their own biases and producing balanced, responsible, and impactful content.

Principal of St. Xavier's College Fr. Dr. Augustine Thomas, S.J. praised the MediaTalk series for fostering meaningful discussions, while Faculty Coordinator Chun Bahadur Gurung said the challenge in the AI era is not whether journalists or content creators shape public narratives, but how both can work together responsibly to strengthen democratic societies.

He added that journalism continues to serve as a pillar of democracy when practiced with its core principles of accuracy, integrity, and accountability.