Lutsk to Host EU Disinformation Debunking Workshop for Ukrainian Journalists, Educators, and Activists
LUTSK, UKRAINE – The Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine is set to host a crucial two-day workshop focused on combating disinformation related to the EU and its support for Ukraine. Scheduled for March 26-27 in Lutsk, this intensive training program will equip journalists, educators, and civil society activists with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify and debunk false narratives. The workshop underscores the EU’s commitment to fostering media literacy and bolstering Ukraine’s resilience against disinformation campaigns, particularly those originating from Russia.
The workshop, titled "Debunking Disinformation on the European Union and the EU’s support to Ukraine," aims to address the pervasive issue of misinformation targeting the EU’s role in Ukraine. Russian propaganda often exploits the topic of European integration and support, attempting to sow discord and undermine public trust. The training will delve into the specific tactics employed by these campaigns, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the disinformation landscape.
Leading the workshop are two distinguished experts in media literacy and fact-checking: Valeriia Stepaniuk, acting Project Manager of VoxCheck, and Dzvenyslava Shcherba, Journalist and Analyst at Internews Ukraine. VoxCheck, a prominent Ukrainian fact-checking organization, has extensive experience in debunking false claims and promoting accurate information. Internews Ukraine, a respected media development organization, works to enhance media professionalism and foster independent journalism. This collaboration ensures that participants benefit from diverse expertise and practical experience.
The workshop will encompass a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of disinformation analysis and countermeasures. Participants will gain in-depth insights into how Russian propaganda manipulates narratives surrounding European integration and aid provided to Ukraine. The training will emphasize practical skills development, empowering participants to effectively verify information using specialized tools and techniques. Beyond skill-building, the workshop also provides a valuable platform for networking and collaboration. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering potential partnerships for future projects focused on combating disinformation.
The workshop’s agenda is structured to maximize learning and engagement. Sessions will include presentations by experts, interactive discussions, and practical exercises. Participants will delve into case studies of disinformation campaigns, analyze their underlying mechanisms, and develop strategies for effectively countering them. Specific attention will be given to identifying and exposing manipulative tactics commonly used in disinformation narratives. The training will also explore the ethical considerations involved in fact-checking and disinformation debunking, emphasizing the importance of responsible reporting and avoiding the unintentional spread of misinformation.
The workshop represents a timely and crucial initiative, as Ukraine faces an ongoing onslaught of disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining its relationship with the EU. By empowering key actors in the information landscape – journalists, educators, and civil society activists – the training seeks to strengthen Ukraine’s resilience against these manipulative tactics. Equipped with enhanced skills and knowledge, participants will be better prepared to identify, analyze, and debunk false narratives, contributing to a more informed and resilient society. The deadline for registration is March 19, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply through the provided online form.
This initiative builds upon previous EU efforts to combat disinformation and promote media literacy in Ukraine. Recognizing the critical role of independent journalism and informed citizenry in democratic societies, the EU has consistently supported programs aimed at strengthening media freedom and fostering critical thinking skills. The workshop aligns with the EU’s broader strategy of countering disinformation, which emphasizes fostering media literacy, strengthening independent media, and promoting fact-checking initiatives. By investing in these efforts, the EU reinforces its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s democratic development and resilience against external threats.
The choice of Lutsk as the workshop’s venue underscores the importance of reaching diverse regions within Ukraine. While major cities like Kyiv often serve as hubs for such events, holding the workshop in Lutsk ensures broader participation from across the country, extending the reach of the training and fostering a nationwide network of informed individuals equipped to counter disinformation. This decentralized approach reflects the EU’s commitment to engaging with communities throughout Ukraine and supporting local initiatives aimed at strengthening democracy and promoting media literacy.
The workshop is expected to have a significant impact on the information landscape in Ukraine. By empowering key stakeholders with the tools and knowledge to identify and debunk disinformation, the training contributes to a more informed public discourse and strengthens the resilience of Ukrainian society against manipulative narratives. The workshop’s emphasis on networking and collaboration also fosters the development of sustainable partnerships, enabling participants to continue their efforts in combating disinformation beyond the two-day event.
The EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against disinformation is unwavering. The disinformation debunking workshop is a testament to this commitment, providing tangible support to those on the front lines of the information war. By equipping journalists, educators, and activists with the necessary skills and knowledge, the EU empowers them to effectively counter false narratives and contribute to a more informed and resilient society. This investment in media literacy and fact-checking is a crucial step in safeguarding democratic values and fostering a more resilient information ecosystem in Ukraine.