Libyan Dialogue Seeks to Counter Disinformation and Foster Peace Ahead of Elections
Libya, a nation grappling with the aftermath of its 2011 revolution and subsequent fragmentation, is striving to pave the way for peaceful and credible elections. Recognizing the detrimental impact of disinformation and misinformation on the electoral process and overall societal stability, Libyan youth, media authorities, election officials, and government representatives convened in Benghazi from April 21st to 23rd. These two forums, organized by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), aimed to equip participants with the tools and strategies to combat the spread of false news, promote community peace, and foster social cohesion.
The Benghazi meetings underscored the crucial role of citizen engagement, particularly among youth, women, and civil society organizations, in addressing the challenges of disinformation and misinformation. In a country marked by deep divisions and the lingering presence of militias, accurate information and societal unity are deemed essential for preventing a resurgence of violence. The forums provided a platform for inclusive dialogue, enabling participants to share their insights and develop collaborative solutions. The resounding message was that civil society, empowered and engaged, can be a potent force for promoting stability and bridging the gap between institutions and communities.
The first forum, attended by approximately 70 individuals, including a significant representation of women, delved specifically into the issue of fake news. Representatives from Libya’s High National Elections Commission (HNEC) highlighted the potential of misinformation and disinformation to undermine the integrity and transparency of elections, citing a case study from the Al Khums district. Participants explored both local and international tools for identifying false information, formulating practical recommendations for improvement. These included strengthening Libya’s legal framework surrounding elections and fostering greater cooperation among government bodies, civil society, media outlets, and other stakeholders at both national and local levels.
The second forum shifted its focus to security and community challenges, bringing together youth and civil society representatives from across Libya’s diverse regions. Recognizing the interplay between security sector reform and community-level violence, participants engaged in discussions on strategies for de-escalation and conflict prevention. UNSMIL shared innovative approaches and highlighted the valuable contribution of youth and women in peacebuilding efforts. The forum yielded recommendations for strengthening social cohesion and creating more inclusive spaces for dialogue within the political process. Notably, participants proposed the establishment of an online networking platform, facilitating communication and information sharing among citizens, UNSMIL, and Libyan institutions. They also emphasized the importance of greater civil society engagement in security sector reform and governance, including specialized training programs.
The Benghazi dialogues exemplified both the progress made and the challenges that remain. The active participation of Libyans from various sectors demonstrated a growing sense of ownership over the peace process. The forums facilitated a shared understanding of the problems posed by disinformation and misinformation, and the resulting recommendations hold promise for building trust in the long term. These efforts, driven by Libyans themselves, signal a commitment to fostering a more informed and cohesive society.
However, the threat of disinformation, misinformation, and hate speech continues to loom large. At an event commemorating World Press Freedom Day, UN Special Representative Hanna Tetteh underscored the dangers posed by deepfakes, AI-generated content, and the lack of regulatory frameworks. She also highlighted the pressures faced by journalists, including censorship and political influence, emphasizing the need for accountability for those who violate journalists’ rights. Earlier in March, the UN warned of a misinformation campaign in Libya targeting migrants and refugees, further underscoring the ongoing challenge. Despite these persistent obstacles, Libyans are proactively seeking solutions. UNSMIL’s upcoming training initiative, focusing on digital fact-checking, investigative reporting, conflict-sensitive journalism, and the impact of artificial intelligence, reflects this ongoing commitment. As Libya navigates a critical juncture in its history, a responsible and empowered media landscape is essential for fostering unity, stability, and prosperity.