Summarized and Humanized Version of the Content:
1. The Importance of Media and Information Literacy (MIL):
Local and international journalists and communication experts agree that media and information literacy is a critical mechanism to combat disinformation. These consensus emerged during the virtual launch of the Myanmar edition of the book, “Journey to Flatland: Journalism, Fake News, and Disinformation,” held on October 24, 2020. The launch sets the stage for the Global Information Literacy Week in Myanmar and underscores the urgent need for media literacy in addressing the growing issue of disinformation.
2. Information Disorder in Myanmar:
This issue has struck a personal note in Myanmar, where its societal and economic dynamics have been deeply influenced by disinformation. Ms. Min Jeong Kim, the Chair of the UNESCO Myanmar Office, emphasized that ‘the impact of information disorder lingered in almost every aspect of life’—including economic, political, social, and cultural domains. Dr. Julie Posetti, co-editor and co-author of the book, stressily highlighted that critical and independent journalism is essential in combatting disinformation, especially given its rise during the pandemic and elections. She warned of how disinformation can disrupt democratic processes. Dr. Posetti also cautioned about the risks of targeted campaigns, particularly those directed at women journalists, which could lead to violence.
3. Information Disorder in conducting Electoral Campaigns:
The Myanmar edition also addressed the challenges faced by media during elections. Disinformation often involves spreading rumors and libelous statements about candidates or their political parties, as well as unpopular statements that fuel hate speech. Textile editor-in-chief of The Voice Journal criticized these Practices, citing ways that online media outlets copied content from mainstream media to generate revenue through advertisements. Mainstream media outlets have increasingly been targeted by vested interest groups for disinformation, and they must embark on efforts to verify their reporting to avoid contributing to further disinformation.
4. The Role of Fact-Checking and Verification:
Despite the risks of disinformation, the book serves as a valuable resource, emphasizing the importance of fact-checking through independent entities or internal to media houses. Ms. Rachel Blundy, Senior Asia-Pacific Editor for AFP Fact Check, outlined that fact-checking is not a ‘new’ practice but rather something all media organizations are expected to engage in to ensure the accuracy of their content.觏ites should establish their own fact-checking units and collaborate with NGOs committed to objective reporting and truth-telling. This process is vital to maintaining trust and integrity in the media landscape. Notably, media outlets must prioritize verification over unchecked/unprofessional reporting to ensure the authenticity of the information they disseminate.
5. Media Regulation and Self-Regulation:
In addressing disinformation, media and technology companies share two primary approaches: government regulation and self-regulation through ethical conduct. Ensuring media says what it wants, according to Dr. Ramon Tuazon, is paramount. However, he emphasizes that while government regulation should not replace self-regulation, it should be the last resort and fall under international standards. According to him, media companies should engage in compliance with ethicalconduct standards by driving media literacy and reporting, ultimately mobilizing individuals to become discerning users of information. This approach underscores the dual nature of addressing disinformation, where both mediums and regulators play significant roles in the medium’s ability to combat the crisis.