Bassem Youssef appears at the Misr Forum: Social media has fueled disagreements

Listen to the article. The audio text is automated, generated by an automated system

Egyptian journalist and comedian Bassem Youssef warned of the influence of social media sites in fueling differences between Arab peoples, stressing that some accounts contribute to spreading hatred and exaggerating crises, which threatens relations between peoples who share common ties.

The cardiologist spoke during a recorded speech presented on the first day of the Egypt 2026 Forum, Monday, about the positive and negative effects of social media platforms, reviewing his personal experience with them.

He explained that social media contributed to his success and fame, but it also caused him many problems. He pointed out that its impact went beyond the exchange of information and communication, to include daily life and human relations.

In addition, he cited the disputes that erupted between some social media users in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, saying: “Suddenly, we wake up and find poor people among our sisters in Saudi Arabia. They say, ‘Oh Taamiya,’ and we respond, ‘Oh Kabsa.’”

He also pointed out that some accounts seek to stir up disagreements and spread hatred among Arab peoples. He stressed that these accounts do not necessarily represent the peoples they claim to belong to, and that the differences that appear through digital platforms may be exaggerated.

He also pointed out that disputes related to football matches or events taking place in some Arab countries could quickly turn into campaigns of mutual attack, negatively affecting relations between peoples.

The former journalist pointed out that some accounts on social media do not represent the peoples they claim to belong to, but rather contribute to igniting crises and expanding the circle of differences. He cited the quarrels that sometimes arise between Egyptians and Saudis, in addition to other disputes between Arab peoples.

Youssef also stressed that relations between Arab peoples are deeper than fleeting disagreements on the Internet, based on his experience traveling and performing concerts in front of audiences of different Arab nationalities, and the feelings of love and mutual support he witnessed between them.

He concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of not allowing disagreements and quarrels on social media to spoil human relations, calling for dealing consciously with what is published on these platforms, and not being led by voices that seek to stir up strife and division.

Youssef, who has been living in the United States for years, participated in the activities of the Egypt 2026 Forum, which discusses a number of issues related to awareness, misleading information, and the impact of technology and social media sites on society.

The opening session witnessed the presentation of video materials that addressed the negative impact of social media and rumours, in addition to discussing issues of national identity and sources of information, within the framework of the activities of the forum held in the new capital.