Kyrgyzstan Launches #ThinkBeforeSharing Campaign to Combat Online Misinformation and Hate Speech
BISHKEK, KYRGYZSTAN – December 2024 – In a concerted effort to combat the growing threat of online misinformation and hate speech, UNESCO’s Almaty Regional Office, in partnership with the Fund for the Development of Media Consulting in Central Asia, has launched the #ThinkBeforeSharing media campaign in Kyrgyzstan. This initiative aims to empower Kyrgyz social media users with critical thinking skills and promote responsible online behavior, fostering a safer and more informed digital environment. The campaign underscores the importance of media and information literacy (MIL) as a crucial defense against the proliferation of false and harmful content.
The #ThinkBeforeSharing campaign recognizes the vital role of MIL in equipping individuals with the ability to discern credible information from biased or fabricated content. Studies have shown a correlation between media freedom and a population’s ability to identify fake news, highlighting the importance of a free press in fostering critical thinking. The campaign seeks to bolster these skills among Kyrgyzstani internet users, enabling them to navigate the complex digital landscape and make informed decisions based on verified information. By promoting responsible online engagement, the initiative also aims to contribute to lasting peace within the online sphere.
One of the key components of the campaign focuses on strengthening digital skills, particularly fact-checking abilities. This empowers individuals to critically evaluate online content and identify potential misinformation or disinformation. Fact-checking provides a crucial defense mechanism against the manipulative tactics often employed in spreading false narratives. By equipping citizens with these skills, the campaign aims to mitigate the harmful effects of misinformation and disinformation, which can erode trust in institutions, fuel social divisions, and even incite violence.
The #ThinkBeforeSharing campaign also directly addresses the issue of online hate speech, recognizing its detrimental impact on social cohesion and inclusivity. Hate speech not only marginalizes and dehumanizes targeted groups but also creates a climate of fear and intolerance. By promoting nonviolent communication and encouraging respectful online dialogue, the initiative seeks to counter the spread of hatred and foster a more inclusive digital environment. The campaign emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in online interactions, promoting a culture of respect and tolerance within the Kyrgyzstani online community.
The campaign incorporates various educational resources and awareness-raising activities to reach a wide audience. These resources may include videos, online tutorials, public service announcements, and community workshops. The campaign’s multilingual approach, utilizing Kyrgyz, Russian, and English hashtags (#ThinkBeforeSharing, #ДумайПреждеЧемДелиться, #ОйлонБөлүшүүдөнМурун), ensures accessibility and inclusivity across different linguistic communities within Kyrgyzstan. This multifaceted strategy aims to maximize the campaign’s impact and empower as many individuals as possible with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.
The #ThinkBeforeSharing campaign is part of a larger project, "Strengthening National Capacity in Peacebuilding and Civil Society Engagement," implemented by UNESCO in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the UN Peacebuilding Fund. This broader project reflects the international community’s commitment to supporting peacebuilding efforts in Kyrgyzstan and fostering a more resilient and inclusive society. The #ThinkBeforeSharing campaign serves as a crucial component of this broader initiative, recognizing the vital role of a responsible and informed online community in promoting peace and stability. By equipping citizens with the tools to critically engage with online content, the campaign contributes to a stronger, more informed, and peaceful Kyrgyzstan.