FAKEWORLD Conference: Highlights from the Discussions on Combatting Fake News

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The recent “FAKEWORLD – Navigating the Maze of Fake News: Skills Development at the Top Level” conference, held in the European Parliament and hosted by MEP Márton Gyöngyösi (Non-Attached Member of the European Parliament) with co-host PROSUM Foundation, was a crucial event addressing the urgent need for accurate information dissemination in today’s complex media environment. The conference brought together experts to discuss strategies to combat misinformation and the role of education in fostering a more informed public.

Key Points from the Conference

The Importance of Trusted Information Amid Crises

Levente Nagy-Pál CEO from PROSUM and Róbert László from Political Capital emphasized that in the wake of a global pandemic and ongoing conflicts near the EU, access to reliable information is more critical than ever. They noted the increasing difficulty in discerning trustworthy sources but highlighted that there are specific methods and indicators to help determine the reliability of information.

Sustainable Media Consumption

A significant part of the discussion centered on the concept of sustainable media consumption, a term that, although not yet widely recognized, is becoming increasingly relevant. Sustainable media consumption involves a conscious effort to seek information from trusted sources and the ability to critically assess the credibility of the information. Nagy-Pál pointed out that by cultivating these skills, individuals can help maintain a sustainable flow of accurate information, thereby reducing the spread of misinformation.

The Role of Individuals in Combatting Fake News

László discussed the role individuals play in either propagating or curbing fake news. He explained how people, often unknowingly, act as multipliers of false information by sharing or acting on misleading news. This can lead to detrimental economic and social consequences, such as panic buying or widening social gaps between different groups, including minorities and refugees.

The Impact on Democratic Processes

With the upcoming European Parliament elections, both speakers stressed the importance of basing electoral decisions on accurate information. They warned that misinformation could lead to democratic deficits and undesirable outcomes. Raising awareness about the significance of sustainable media consumption and enhancing public skills in information assessment are crucial steps to prevent such issues.

PROSUM Foundation’s E-Learning Platform

The PROSUM Foundation, a Brussels-based think tank, unveiled its newly developed E-Learning platform at the conference. Funded by the Erasmus+ program, this platform aims to educate citizens and young adults on recognizing fake news and understanding the dynamics of misinformation on social media.

Course Structure and Accessibility

The free e-learning course begins with an introduction to various media types and scales, progressing to more detailed modules on identifying fake news and deep fakes. The course uses a mix of videos, written materials, and quizzes to ensure an engaging and comprehensive learning experience. Users only need to register with their name and email to access the courses, which conclude with quizzes to test their understanding and mastery of the material.

Empowering Individuals

By providing these resources, PROSUM aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions and act based on verified information. This initiative not only supports adults seeking to expand their knowledge but also high school students, helping them develop critical thinking skills that contribute to better civic engagement and integration within the EU.

Conclusion

The FAKEWORLD conference underscored the critical need for sustainable media consumption and the role of education in combatting misinformation. PROSUM Foundation’s e-learning platform represents a significant step towards equipping citizens with the skills needed to navigate today’s complex media landscape. By fostering critical analysis and informed decision-making, these efforts contribute to a more resilient and democratic society.

Disclaimer: the sole liability for the opinions stated rests with the author(s). These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Parliament.