Lisbon Conference Underscores Critical Role of Civil Society in Combating Disinformation
LISBON, Portugal – The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) convened its fourth conference on disinformation in Lisbon on May 22nd, emphasizing the vital role of civil society in tackling the escalating threat of disinformation. Titled "CITIZENS CAN DEFEAT DISINFORMATION. Civil Society for an open democratic debate,” the conference brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including Portuguese authorities, EU representatives, civil society organizations, journalists, social media experts, academics, students, and concerned citizens. This gathering underscores the growing recognition of disinformation as a pervasive societal problem that undermines the foundations of democracy and constructive public discourse. The EESC’s ongoing project reflects a proactive approach to engaging citizens directly in the fight against disinformation, recognizing the horizontal nature of its spread and the need for collective action.
The proliferation of disinformation, fueled by the exploitation of new technologies, has emerged as a significant challenge to democratic societies. The ease with which false or misleading information can be disseminated through online platforms and social media networks has created a climate of distrust and eroded public faith in established institutions. The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have further exacerbated the problem, enabling the creation of highly sophisticated and convincing disinformation campaigns. The potential for AI-powered manipulation poses a serious threat to the integrity of information ecosystems and requires a coordinated response from governments, civil society organizations, and the tech industry. The Lisbon conference serves as a platform for discussing these complex issues and identifying effective strategies to counter the spread of disinformation.
The EESC recognizes the importance of grassroots involvement in combating disinformation and has adopted a strategy of engaging directly with local communities. By organizing conferences and information campaigns in partnership with local organizations, the EESC aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and resist disinformation. This approach recognizes that a bottom-up approach is crucial in effectively addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by disinformation. Engaging with civil society organizations, which are deeply embedded within their communities, allows for targeted interventions and tailored solutions. The Lisbon conference exemplified this commitment to collaborative action, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders to share insights and build partnerships.
The conference program featured a range of presentations, panel discussions, and workshops designed to explore the various dimensions of the disinformation challenge. Experts shared their perspectives on the latest trends in disinformation tactics, the psychological impact of false narratives, and the role of social media algorithms in amplifying disinformation. The event also provided a valuable opportunity for participants to share best practices and exchange ideas on effective countermeasures. Discussions focused on the importance of media literacy education, the development of critical thinking skills, and the promotion of responsible online behavior. The conference aimed to foster a sense of collective responsibility and empower citizens to become active participants in the fight against disinformation.
The EESC’s commitment to addressing the disinformation challenge extends beyond organizing conferences. The committee is actively involved in developing policy recommendations and advocating for stronger regulatory frameworks to combat the spread of disinformation. These efforts encompass promoting transparency in online advertising, strengthening fact-checking initiatives, and holding social media platforms accountable for the content they host. The EESC recognizes that a multi-pronged approach is necessary, involving legislative action, industry self-regulation, and public awareness campaigns. The Lisbon conference served as a forum for discussing these complex policy issues and formulating concrete recommendations for action.
The EESC’s ongoing project on disinformation reflects a deep commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring the integrity of public discourse. By engaging with civil society organizations and empowering citizens to become active participants in the fight against disinformation, the EESC is contributing to a more resilient and informed society. The Lisbon conference marked an important milestone in this ongoing effort, providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the development of effective strategies to counter the spread of disinformation. The fight against disinformation requires a sustained and collective effort, and the EESC’s initiatives play a crucial role in fostering a more informed and resilient democratic society. The open nature of the event and its accessibility through web streaming further emphasized the EESC’s commitment to engaging a broad audience and fostering a participatory approach to tackling the complex challenge of disinformation.
