UN Launches Global Survey to Combat Misinformation and Disinformation Impeding Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations has embarked on a critical mission to assess the detrimental impact of misinformation and disinformation on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A key outcome of the 2024 Global Digital Compact, Action 35(e), mandates this evaluation. Spearheading this initiative, the UN Department of Global Communications (DGC) has launched a comprehensive online survey, accessible globally until December 31, 2025. The survey aims to gather crucial insights from a diverse range of stakeholders, including UN entities, Member States, civil society organizations, academic institutions, the private sector, and individual experts. The gathered data will play a pivotal role in informing future policy decisions and global strategies to counter the harmful effects of false or misleading information.
The survey, a cornerstone of Action 35(e), is designed to create a comprehensive inventory of ongoing global initiatives aimed at combating misinformation and disinformation, particularly as they relate to hindering the achievement of the SDGs. By collecting data on best practices, successful strategies, and lessons learned, the UN aims to identify effective approaches that can be replicated and scaled globally. This collective intelligence will empower governments, organizations, and individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of online information and mitigate the negative consequences of misinformation and disinformation.
Beyond showcasing successes, the survey also seeks to identify critical gaps and challenges in addressing this pervasive issue. Understanding the limitations and obstacles faced by different actors will inform the development of targeted solutions and policy recommendations. The DGC aims to use this information to guide future UN actions and provide Member States with the necessary support to implement effective strategies. The survey will also delve into the specific impact of misinformation on various SDGs, such as health, climate action, gender equality, and quality education, enabling a more nuanced and targeted response.
The survey represents a crucial opportunity for global collaboration and knowledge sharing. By engaging a broad range of stakeholders, the UN aims to create a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to tackling misinformation and disinformation. Contributions from Member States will be particularly valuable in providing national-level insights, reflecting diverse contexts and perspectives. Designated national authorities or relevant ministries are encouraged to complete the survey on behalf of their respective governments, ensuring a representative and comprehensive picture of national efforts. This participatory approach underscores the importance of collective responsibility in addressing this global issue.
The DGC emphasizes the significance of the survey in achieving the overall goals of the Global Digital Compact. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, the UN seeks to forge a path towards a more equitable, inclusive, and trustworthy digital ecosystem. The survey’s findings will serve as a foundation for developing actionable policy recommendations and guiding future initiatives that address the multifaceted challenges of misinformation and disinformation. This includes promoting media literacy, strengthening fact-checking mechanisms, supporting independent journalism, and fostering critical thinking skills.
The UN urges all relevant stakeholders to participate actively in the survey and contribute their expertise and experiences. The deadline for submissions is December 31, 2025. The survey is available online and accessible in multiple languages to ensure broad participation. The UN believes that this collective effort is crucial to mitigate the harmful impacts of misinformation and disinformation on sustainable development and build a more resilient and informed global community. The success of this initiative hinges on the active engagement of all stakeholders, and the UN looks forward to receiving valuable contributions from around the world as part of its overarching effort to ensure a safer and more productive digital future for all.