Latin America’s Fight Against Disinformation: A Collaborative Approach
The fight against disinformation is a global challenge, and Latin America is at the forefront of developing innovative and collaborative strategies to combat its spread. Through a network of fact-checking organizations, media outlets, academic institutions, and other key stakeholders, the region is working to build a more resilient information ecosystem. One of the leading forces in this effort is LatamChequea, a network dedicated to consolidating fact-checking efforts across Latin America. In the past year, the organization has focused on strengthening its regional network, adding eight new organizations and bringing together over 50 groups from Latin America, Spain, and the United States for a collaborative meeting in São Paulo. This milestone marked the network’s 10th anniversary, highlighting a decade of dedication to combating disinformation and promoting accurate information.
Empowering Journalists: A Fact-Checking Accelerator Program
Recognizing the crucial role of journalists in combating disinformation, the MediaFact Latam program launched a comprehensive accelerator program designed to equip media professionals with the necessary skills and resources. Over 100 journalists from Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, representing 50 media outlets, participated in this initiative. The program provided training sessions, access to cutting-edge tools, technology transfer, and mentoring, all aimed at enhancing their ability to verify information swiftly and effectively. This collaborative effort, developed in partnership with prominent fact-checking organizations like Colombia Check, Mala Espina, Ojo Público, and Verificado MX, demonstrates a regional commitment to empowering journalists as key players in the fight against disinformation.
Building a Collaborative Ecosystem: Journalism and Innovation Network
A key element of combating disinformation involves fostering collaboration between various actors in the information space. To this end, a new journalism and innovation network was established, bringing together local media outlets and strategic partners. This network focuses on verifying public discourse, creating engaging content for younger audiences, and conducting in-depth investigative journalism. Members of this network include ADN Sur (Chubut), Ruido (Córdoba), Aire (Santa Fe), Todo Jujuy, and Corrientes al Día, representing a diverse range of media organizations committed to promoting accurate and reliable information. This collaborative approach strengthens local reporting and enhances the capacity to debunk false narratives within specific communities.
Promoting Critical Thinking: Media and Information Literacy (MIL)
Recognizing the importance of equipping citizens with the skills to critically evaluate information, a significant effort has been made to promote Media and Information Literacy (MIL). The MIL in Action digital platform provides access to over 30 MIL resources developed by 20 Argentinian organizations. This platform serves as a valuable resource for educators and the broader community, promoting critical thinking and empowering individuals to navigate the complex information landscape. By focusing on education and critical thinking, this initiative addresses the root causes of disinformation vulnerability and builds a more resilient society.
Expanding the Reach: Fact-Checking Trainers Network
To further amplify the impact of fact-checking efforts, a network of fact-checking trainers has been established and expanded. This network focuses on training journalism and communication professors in the art of fact-checking, equipping them to integrate these essential skills into their curriculum. The network expanded to include Bolivia and Chile, with 37 professors implementing their training across 24 universities, reaching a total of 894 students. In Argentina, the network collaborated with 12 public and private universities, extending the reach of fact-checking education across the country. This train-the-trainer approach ensures a sustainable and scalable model for disseminating fact-checking skills and empowering future generations of journalists and communicators.
Addressing Disinformation in Public Discourse: IDEA Colloquium and Beyond
The fight against disinformation extends to all spheres of public life, including important events and discussions that shape public opinion. For the second consecutive year, a collaboration with the Argentine Institute for Business Development (IDEA) focused on verifying content from its annual colloquium, a significant event for the business community. This collaboration involved producing explanatory content on crucial topics such as informality, poverty and its impact on young people, the labor market, formal employment, and non-wage labor costs. Furthermore, an interdisciplinary gathering, “The science of disinformation,” brought together experts from various fields to explore evidence-based strategies for countering disinformation, while a mentoring program supported 10 investigative journalism groups across the region, resulting in the publication of 20 in-depth reports on the dynamics of disinformation. These initiatives highlight the importance of addressing disinformation across different contexts and engaging diverse stakeholders in the search for solutions. By addressing disinformation in high-profile events and fostering research on the phenomenon, these efforts contribute to a more informed and resilient public discourse.