Addressing Mis- and Disinformation on Social Media

Access to information is central to addressing mis- and disinformation. It enables people to make informed choices, serves as the basis for evidence-based policymaking, and is central to enabling individuals to understand how the digital ecosystem works. Yet, faced with the challenge of countering mis- and disinformation, policymakers and other actors have often enacted measures that restrict information and freedom of expression. Drawing largely on UNESCO research, this chapter explores the phenomenon of mis- and disinformation on social media and the problems inherent in common approaches to counter it while respecting the fundamental human right to freedom of expression. The chapter concludes by presenting approaches to countering mis- and disinformation other than regulation through supporting independent journalism, fact-checking, and encouragement of greater transparency from internet platform companies as more durable long-term solutions for the promotion of information as a public good.