Ukraine’s Fight Against Disinformation Takes Center Stage at European Media Forum
Strasbourg, France – November 7, 2024 – Amidst growing global concern over the manipulative power of disinformation, a critical panel discussion unfolded today at the Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg, focusing on the essential role of media in countering these information threats. Co-organized with the division of Co-operation and Capacity Building on Freedom of Expression, the session brought together Ukrainian government officials, media representatives, and international experts to dissect the current landscape of information warfare, specifically examining Russia’s targeted disinformation campaigns against Ukraine. The discussion served as a platform to share practical strategies for media professionals to build audience resilience against manipulation and explored collaborative approaches involving governments, media outlets, civil society, and international organizations to safeguard the integrity of global information spaces.
Ukrainian journalist Mariya Frey, currently a board member of the Ukrainian Public Broadcasting Company SUSPILNE, moderated the panel. Frey’s extensive experience in media management and policy development provided a strong foundation for navigating the complex issues surrounding disinformation and its impact on democratic processes. Her background in fostering media transformation and promoting freedom of speech framed the discussion within the context of Ukraine’s ongoing struggle to maintain an independent and trustworthy information environment.
The panel featured a diverse range of perspectives on combating disinformation. Aliona Holiakova, Creative Producer at the Co-Productions and Outsource Commissioning Department of Ukrainian public broadcaster “Suspilne,” offered insights into the challenges faced by Ukrainian media in countering the constant barrage of disinformation emanating from Russia. Hélène Champagne, Program Director of the EU MediaFit Project at DW (Deutsche Welle) Akademie, provided a European perspective on media literacy and resilience-building initiatives, while renowned Ukrainian Studies expert Andrew Wilson, Professor at University College London, shared his in-depth research on the evolution and impact of Russian propaganda, drawing from his forthcoming book, "How Russia Created the Propaganda that Helped Create the War Against Ukraine." Wilson’s expertise in political technology and the globalization of political manipulation offered a crucial analytical framework for understanding the sophisticated tactics employed in modern information warfare.
The panelists dissected the multifaceted nature of Russian disinformation campaigns targeting Ukraine, highlighting the strategic use of fabricated narratives, manipulated media, and online bot networks to distort public perception, sow discord, and undermine trust in legitimate sources of information. The discussion explored how these tactics have impacted not only the Ukrainian population but also international audiences, highlighting the global implications of disinformation campaigns. The panel emphasized the urgent need for media professionals to develop robust fact-checking mechanisms, promote critical thinking among audiences, and collaborate with international partners to expose and debunk disinformation narratives.
A key focus of the discussion was the sharing of practical strategies for enhancing audience resilience to disinformation. Panelists emphasized the importance of media literacy education, equipping audiences with the critical thinking skills necessary to identify and analyze potentially manipulative information. The discussion also explored the role of social media platforms in amplifying disinformation and the need for more effective content moderation policies to mitigate the spread of harmful narratives. Panelists advocated for a multi-pronged approach involving governments, media organizations, civil society groups, and tech companies to create a more resilient information ecosystem.
Following the panel discussion, a vibrant exchange with the audience, including a youth delegation, provided an opportunity for deeper engagement with the issues raised. Participants explored the challenges of combating disinformation in an increasingly complex information landscape and discussed the importance of international cooperation in addressing this global threat. The session concluded with a collective reflection on how joint efforts across sectors can effectively counter disinformation campaigns and safeguard the integrity of shared information spaces. The panelists emphasized the need for sustained vigilance, ongoing investment in media literacy initiatives, and robust international cooperation to protect democratic values and ensure access to reliable and accurate information.
The discussions highlighted the pressing urgency for collaborative action against disinformation. The panelists and audience alike recognized the shared responsibility of governments, media organizations, civil society, and international bodies to develop and implement comprehensive strategies to counter this growing threat to democratic societies. The event served as a powerful reminder that safeguarding the integrity of information is a collective endeavor requiring sustained commitment and collaboration.
The insights shared by the panelists underscored the crucial role of Ukrainian media in not only debunking disinformation but also in providing accurate and reliable information to both domestic and international audiences. The panel emphasized the need for continued support for Ukrainian media outlets as they operate under challenging circumstances and play a vital role in countering Russian propaganda narratives.
Andrew Wilson’s expertise on the mechanisms and impact of Russian disinformation campaigns provided valuable context for understanding the strategic objectives and sophisticated techniques employed. His analysis underscored the global implications of these information operations and the need for international collaboration to effectively counter them.
The active participation of the youth delegation in the discussion highlighted the importance of engaging younger generations in the fight against disinformation. The panelists emphasized the need for media literacy education to empower young people with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex information environment and identify potentially manipulative content.
The panel discussion served as a vital platform for sharing experiences, best practices, and collaborative strategies to combat disinformation. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening international partnerships and working together to protect the integrity of global information spaces for present and future generations. The discussions held in Strasbourg represent a critical step towards building a more resilient and informed global community, capable of withstanding the manipulative forces of disinformation. The event underscored the crucial role of accurate and trustworthy information in safeguarding democratic values and building a more secure and stable future.