It is a pleasure to participate in the upcoming discussion focused on media ethics and the fight against disinformation. This critically important event will bring together leading experts from diverse backgrounds to explore the multifaceted challenges and ethical dilemmas surrounding efforts to combat fake news and manipulative information.
Disinformation, regardless of what form it takes, has emerged as a pervasive threat in our interconnected world, impacting everything from public discourse and democratic processes to individual well-being. But in our attempts to tackle this problem, we often find ourselves walking a tightrope, balancing the need for truth and integrity with fundamental ethical principles such as transparency, accountability and fairness.
The webinar, titled “Ethics in the Fight Against Disinformation: Practical Dilemmas for Media and Civic Actors,” offers a unique opportunity to delve into these complex issues. It acknowledges that while tools like content moderation, fact-checking and open-source intelligence (OSINT) are invaluable in countering harmful manipulation, they also raise profound questions that demand careful consideration and open dialogue.
The event, which is designed for journalists, educators, civic activists, and AI practitioners, promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking experience. It will begin with a presentation of a newly developed short course, providing participants with practical frameworks and tools to navigate these ethical complexities in their respective fields.
Following this introduction, the floor will be handed over to a panel of distinguished experts, each bringing a wealth of experience and unique perspective to the conversation. Their insights into real-world ethical challenges will undoubtedly enrich the discussion and provide valuable guidance for those on the front lines of the fight against disinformation.
The lineup of speakers is truly impressive, featuring individuals who have dedicated their careers to understanding and addressing information manipulation.
Georgios Terzis, Professor at Brussels School of Governance, Vrije Universiteit Brussel: Professor Terzis is a true titan in the field of communications and ethics. With a wealth of academic experience spanning over 25 years, his research has delved into crucial areas like media and security, media ethics, disinformation, and media literacy. His diverse background, coupled with his involvement in numerous international research projects, makes him an invaluable voice in this discussion.
Nelly Pailleux, Chief Operations Officer at CheckFirst: Nelly brings a dynamic blend of technical expertise and practical experience to the panel. As co-founder of CheckFirst, a Finnish organization at the forefront of combating information manipulation, she works tirelessly at the intersection of digital investigations and platform accountability. Her work includes training journalists in OSINT and researching algorithmic amplification, highlighting her commitment to equipping individuals with the skills to navigate the complex information landscape. She’s also a founding member of Obsint, an NGO dedicated to establishing best practices for OSINT stakeholders, further underscoring her dedication to ethical intelligence gathering.
Maria Giovanna Sessa, Research Manager at EU DisinfoLab: Maria’s academic rigor and policy-oriented approach make her a crucial addition to the panel. With a Ph.D. in Political Science, her research focuses on how disinformation is weaponized in political communication, gender-based attacks, and international crises. Her current work around Digital Services Act (DSA) enforcement, bridging the gap between research and policy implementation, offers a crucial perspective on how we can translate ethical considerations into tangible actions.
The discussion will be skillfully moderated by Inès Gentil, Project Manager at EU DisinfoLab. Inès’s expertise in European external relations, coupled with her experience in defence, security, and public diplomacy, will ensure a productive and insightful exchange among the panelists.
This webinar is organized under the umbrella of the PERISCOPE project, a testament to the European Union’s commitment to fostering a more informed and resilient citizenry. Funded by the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme, the project highlights the collaborative effort required to address the challenges posed by disinformation.
It’s important to remember that the opinions expressed during the webinar will be those of the speakers themselves, not necessarily reflecting the official views of the European Union or its affiliated bodies. This encourages open and honest dialogue, allowing for a genuine exploration of these complex ethical considerations without institutional constraints.
In an era where the lines between truth and falsehood are increasingly blurred, events like this webinar are more vital than ever. They provide a crucial platform for individuals and organizations to come together, share knowledge, and collectively navigate the ethical minefield of disinformation. By fostering a deeper understanding of these dilemmas and exploring practical solutions, we can empower ourselves to build a more informed, resilient, and ethically sound information environment for everyone.