UNESCO discusses prospects for Kokand to join the Alliance of “Media and Information Literacy Cities” July 13, 2026. 08:10 • 3 min • 195PARIS, July 13. /Dunyo IA/. An online meeting was held to discuss the accession of the city of Kokand to the UNESCO “Media and Information Literacy Cities” initiative, reports Dunyo IA correspondent. Meeting was attended by Alton Grizzle, representative of the UNESCO Communication and Information Sector; Muhammadrashod Mavlonkulov, Advisor to the Khokimiyat of Kokand; Uktam Zhuraev, official of the National Commission of Uzbekistan for UNESCO; Bakhrom Radjabov, representative of the UNESCO Office in Tashkent; as well as officials from the Permanent Delegation of Uzbekistan to UNESCO. During the meeting, representatives of Kokand expressed strong interest in developing cooperation with UNESCO in the field of media and information literacy. It was noted that Kokand, which possesses a rich historical, cultural, educational, and social potential, views the “MIL Cities” initiative as an opportunity to systematize its efforts in developing digital skills, fostering the responsible use of information, and engaging youth, educational and cultural institutions, libraries, museums, mass media and local communities. UNESCO representatives noted Kokand's interest in developing cooperation within the “MIL Cities” initiative, emphasizing that the city's rich historical and cultural heritage, educational traditions and active community life provide a solid foundation for promoting media and information literacy at the local level. During the meeting, it was highlighted that Kokand possesses significant potential to become an active urban platform for implementing modern UNESCO approaches to critical thinking, digital skills, responsible information consumption, and resilience to disinformation. In this context, particular importance is attached to drafting a municipal Action Plan, which will unite the efforts of the khokimiyat, educational and cultural institutions, libraries, museums, media, youth organizations, families, civil society and other stakeholders. UNESCO emphasized the importance of an