Azerbaijan Institute of Theology Warns of Risks of Religious Disinformation on Social Media
Jerusalem, 11 August, 2026 (TPS-IL) -- Baku (AZERTAC) – The fact that digital platforms and social networks are one of the main sources of religious knowledge for young people in modern times makes it necessary to pay increased attention to the quality and reliability of religious information disseminated in this environment. Along with reliable information, the dissemination of content that is far from scientific basis and distorts or misinterprets religious texts poses certain risks, especially for young people whose religious knowledge is not sufficiently formed.
In response to a request from AZERTAC , the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology stated that religious disinformation spread on social networks can lead to the formation of misconceptions about religious issues, the manipulative presentation of religious topics, and the emergence of certain disagreements in society.
It was noted that the presentation of religious texts out of context, the use of fake quotes, the incorrect and manipulative interpretation of religious issues, as well as the dissemination of radical content can have a negative impact on people’s attitudes towards religious issues.
One of the main directions in preventing these risks is to increase religious literacy in society, especially among young people. People should be able to evaluate the source of information they encounter on social networks, check the accuracy of information, and refer to reliable and academic sources on religious issues.
The main goal of religious education is not only to convey religious knowledge to young people, but also to form in them the ability to think critically, analyze information correctly, and distinguish reliable sources. The educational process at the Azerbaijan Theological Institute is based on this approach.
In addition to classical religious sciences, students are given knowledge in religious studies, philosophy, history, psychology, and other humanitarian fields. This approach allows young people to form a broader and more objective view of religious issues and to analyze various information in a comparative manner.
Religious education is not limited to the audience and the educational environment. Special attention is paid to the formation of a healthy worldview of young people through seminars, conferences, round tables, meetings and various educational projects.
It was noted that one of the main problems in the field of religious education of young people is the selection of the right and reliable source in the conditions of abundance of information on social networks. Since short, emotional and out-of-context shares, especially on religious topics, reach a wider audience, their correct assessment requires a certain level of information and media literacy from young people.
In this regard, it is of great importance to increase both religious and media literacy of young people, instilling in them the ability to evaluate various information with a critical approach.
The formation of a healthy religious worldview, increasing the accessibility of reliable religious knowledge and directing young people to the right sources of information can significantly contribute to reducing the effects of religious disinformation. In this direction, strengthening cooperation between state institutions, educational institutions, religious communities, media and other institutions of society can also yield important results.
