Defending Truth
18 Jan 2024 13:15h - 14:00h
Event report
Global trust in institutions is eroding, reflected in how 40% of people consistently trust news. Empowering Internet users with media information literacy, advancing information integrity and enhancing transparency are vital for addressing the spread of false information.
What actions do stakeholders need to take to preserve a healthy trust ecosystem?
More info: WEF 2024.
Knowledge Graph of Debate
Session report
Full session report
Mark Leonard
In this analysis, the importance of defending truth and countering misinformation is emphasised. The report acknowledges that challenges to our information ecosystem are impacting various aspects of our lives. These challenges have led to a negative sentiment, as evidenced by Aeschylus’ statement that truth is the first casualty of war. In today’s world, where the spread of misinformation is rampant, it is crucial to defend truth in order to have meaningful discussions on any topic. Furthermore, the report describes the current era as the era of artificial truth. This is due to the prevalence of artificial intelligence and its impact on altering the information ecosystem. The analysis identifies modern challenges such as wars and the influence of artificial intelligence in shaping and manipulating information. These factors contribute to the negative sentiment surrounding the concept of truth in today’s society. Moreover, the analysis highlights the alarming issue of disinformation, which is recognized as a top global risk. The World Economic Forum’s Global Risk Report for 2024 identifies disinformation as a significant concern. This further emphasizes the need to combat the spread of false information and its potential consequences on global peace, justice, and strong institutions. Overall, the analysis underscores the importance of defending truth and combating misinformation in today’s world. It sheds light on the negative impacts that challenges to our information ecosystem can have on various aspects of our lives. Additionally, it raises awareness about the prevalence of the era of artificial truth, influenced by wars and the role of artificial intelligence. Lastly, the report highlights the global risk posed by disinformation, as identified by the World Economic Forum. It concludes that addressing these issues is vital for fostering a more informed and balanced society.
Meredith Kopit Levien
The analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of journalism. It acknowledges the increased interest in news organizations like the New York Times during Trump’s presidency but notes that their success is not solely attributed to him. Other factors, such as effective strategies and growing subscriptions, contribute to their strong and engaged audience.
The analysis emphasises the essential requirements for journalism to thrive. It underscores the need for freedoms and resources, including freedom from intimidation and harassment, media literacy among the public, and sustainable business models for media companies. Without these conditions, the direct relationship between publishers and readers becomes challenging, leading to a proliferation of lower quality content. The intermediation of the relationship between readers and publishers further hinders the flow of information.
Technology’s role in journalism is highlighted. While tech advancements have provided more audience reach, they have also led to the proliferation of low-quality content. However, there is optimism that technology can provide better signals to distinguish between independent, fact-based journalism and low-quality content. Progress made by Google in this regard is acknowledged, although more work is needed.
The analysis also addresses the attempt by world leaders to sow mistrust against credible news organizations, adding to the challenges faced by journalism. The closure of many newspapers, particularly in the United States, is seen as detrimental to local journalism and has resulted in a decrease in the number of working journalists. Advocates for journalism argue for increased use of journalists to improve coverage and understanding, emphasizing the need for a larger newsroom.
Furthermore, the analysis recognises the potential of technology in making journalism more efficient. It highlights the time and effort invested in investigative reporting, citing the example of the Harvey Weinstein story and the Me Too movement. The importance of human-led creative work in delivering high-quality journalism is emphasised.
The analysis acknowledges the potential of AI in journalism to disseminate news in multiple languages and on a larger scale. However, fair value exchange for the use of journalistic content in AI and other tools is crucial.
The increasing trend of Gen Z getting news from platforms like TikTok is mentioned, signalling the need for traditional news organizations to adapt to changing content consumption patterns. Modern methods of storytelling and interaction are necessary to effectively engage younger audiences.
Lastly, the analysis emphasises the importance of independent journalism and the need to educate the public about the journalistic process. Transparent reporting origins and processes enhance trust and credibility in news sources.
In conclusion, the analysis provides valuable insights into the current state of journalism, highlighting factors that contribute to success, essential requirements for journalism to thrive, challenges faced, the impact of technology, and the importance of independent and trustworthy reporting. It underscores the need for ongoing adaptation, technological advancements, and a commitment to truth and quality journalism.
Vera Jourová
The analysis explores a range of crucial topics relating to disinformation and media regulation. One key area highlighted is the need to combat the spread of disinformation. It emphasizes that politicians have a responsibility to communicate accurately and truthfully. The analysis refers to instances where politicians caught lying were disqualified, underscoring the importance of honesty in political communication.
Another significant aspect discussed is the importance of strengthening the media and creating safe environments for journalists. The European Union (EU) has taken steps to protect journalists by implementing laws that provide better safeguards for them. This demonstrates a positive stance in supporting the media and ensuring their safety while carrying out their duties.
Collaboration with major tech companies and fact-checking are also presented as crucial strategies in combating disinformation. The analysis notes that all major tech companies have committed themselves to the Code of Practice Against Disinformation. This collaboration aims to ensure the provision of accurate information to citizens and combat the spread of false or misleading content.
Long-term awareness-raising is proposed as an effective means of reducing society’s susceptibility to believing lies and misinformation. This aligns with the goal of promoting media literacy and public awareness. However, the analysis does not provide specific evidence or examples to support this perspective.
The analysis also highlights concerns about an increase in antisemitism and violence incited by conspiracy theories. It acknowledges that law enforcement may be a last resort solution to address such issues. The evidence presented suggests a rise in cases of antisemitism and violence fueled by conspiracy theories.
Regulation of the information space is considered a critical but sensitive matter due to concerns surrounding freedom of speech. The analysis mentions the perspective of an individual, Vera, who lived under totalitarian regimes, emphasizing the importance of freedom of speech. It cautions that regulating the information space may be viewed as suppressing free expression, potentially posing challenges in finding the right balance between regulation and freedom.
Demonetizing platforms that spread disinformation is proposed as a strategy to “starve out” the source. Evidence is offered, citing that multiple leading companies have dissociated themselves from platforms spreading disinformation and have endorsed the demonetization of such platforms.
The analysis also acknowledges the importance of ensuring that Artificial Intelligence (AI) respects human rights and achievements, including freedom of speech and copyright protection. The AI Act explicitly recognizes the need for copyright protection and imposes limits on AI regarding freedom of speech, restricting it as a human right. This indicates a positive approach to ensuring AI operates within ethical boundaries.
The financing and regulation of public media are discussed. The analysis notes that EU member states have adhered to rules related to public service media funding and implemented a transparent process for leadership selection. This indicates support for public media receiving sufficient financing and being regulated under the Media Freedom Act.
Deepfakes, which are manipulated and misleading videos, are considered a concerning issue. They have the potential to be classified as fraud, as the analysis points out. However, no specific evidence or supporting examples are provided.
The analysis brings up the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the significance of platforms providing space for health authorities to share reliable information. While the sentiment towards this point is neutral, no supporting evidence or examples are provided.
Lastly, the analysis highlights the financial challenges faced by public and private media. Advertising money flowing to big tech platforms has made it difficult for private media organizations to sustain themselves. This has raised concerns over the financial situation of private media.
In conclusion, the analysis provides an overview of various important aspects related to disinformation and media regulation. It emphasizes the need to combat disinformation, the importance of accurate political communication, the safety of journalists, collaboration with tech companies on fact-checking, and long-term awareness-raising. Other key observations include concerns over antisemitism and violence, cautious regulation of the information space, the potential impact of demonetization strategies, and the ethical use of AI. The analysis also highlights the financing challenges faced by public and private media. However, it should be noted that more specific evidence or examples would strengthen the overall analysis.
Jeanne Bourgault
Upon analysing the given statements, several key points emerge regarding the issue of disinformation. Firstly, civil society plays a vital role in addressing disinformation by bolstering information ecosystems. This is particularly important in regions where access to free and open information is limited. Internews supports news organisations in approximately 130 countries, particularly in areas where the existence of free and open information is challenging. Additionally, it is acknowledged that disinformation generates profit, and it is crucial to follow and address the financial aspect of disinformation. The argument is made that more can be done on the platform side to tackle disinformation.
The global advertising industry is also acknowledged to have a role and responsibility in combating disinformation. Disinformation generates revenue from the global advertising industry, making it imperative to direct ad money towards accurate and relevant news. Strategies such as using exclusion or inclusion lists can be employed to ensure that ad money is channeled towards reliable sources of information.
Furthermore, the lack of local language expertise for online content moderation is identified as a hindrance to effective moderation. It is highlighted that currently, only a limited number of languages are covered, leaving the vast majority of the world without adequate content moderation. This highlights the need to address the language barrier in ensuring comprehensive online content moderation.
Civil society interventions and innovative structures, such as the presence of an e-commissioner, are upheld as potential solutions to mitigate digital harms. The positive impact of the Facebook Oversight Board and the existence of an e-safety commissioner in Australia are cited as examples. These interventions and structures can help regulate digital platforms and address harmful content effectively.
The safety of journalists remains a pervasive issue worldwide, with various challenges faced by journalists in different regions. The Middle East is noted to be the deadliest for journalists, while organised crime in Latin America and Mexico poses significant risks. Additionally, it is highlighted that hundreds of local journalists are imprisoned annually. The safety issue for journalists is therefore deemed a global concern affecting both the international and local news industries.
Public broadcasting is considered as a potential model for news coverage. In Ukraine, for instance, the public broadcaster is reported to be effectively covering the war, indicating the positive impact of a publicly funded news organisation. However, it is worth noting that other news models are being explored globally, suggesting a need for diverse approaches to news dissemination.
Moreover, it is argued that the news consumption patterns of Generation Z, particularly on platforms like TikTok, need to be recognised. The unique and intimate form of media on these platforms necessitates an understanding of how younger generations consume news and information.
The analysis also highlights the amplification of false news through intentional disinformation and unintentional misinformation. This further emphasises the need for effective measures to counteract and minimise the spread of false information.
In the fight against misinformation, it is suggested that innovative and engaging mechanisms such as humour, satire, and games can be employed effectively. The use of these tools can potentially combat misinformation and improve public understanding of complex issues.
Lastly, the detrimental impact of gendered misinformation on female experts and vulnerability is acknowledged. Female scientists and news organisations are particularly affected by gendered misinformation, highlighting the need to address this issue to ensure gender equality in the field.
Overall, the analysis indicates the multifaceted nature of disinformation and the importance of various stakeholders in combating this issue. Civil society, the global advertising industry, language expertise for content moderation, and innovative interventions are all seen as critical elements in addressing disinformation. Furthermore, ensuring the safety of journalists, exploring different news models, recognising new forms of news consumption, countering false information, and addressing gendered misinformation are all crucial aspects in the fight against disinformation.
Audience
Public broadcasting, such as the BBC, is considered a potential solution to the challenges in the media landscape. Peter from the audience believes that public broadcasters like the BBC, with their non-commercial operating model and balanced perspective, can play a crucial role in providing reliable and unbiased information. This is essential for promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions, as emphasized by SDG 16.
While Artificial Intelligence (AI) is acknowledged as a powerful tool for gathering extensive historical data, concerns arise about its ability to distinguish truth. A skeptical audience member questions AI’s capability to discern between accurate and false information, highlighting potential issues with the spread of misinformation and its impact on society.
The panel is encouraged to discuss the different patterns of news consumption among youth. Understanding their preferences and habits is vital for addressing SDG 4, which focuses on quality education, and SDG 9, which emphasizes industry, innovation, and infrastructure. By exploring how youth consume news, effective strategies for delivering news content to this demographic can be developed.
The Commission faces the challenge of navigating a future where private companies struggle to generate revenues and profits, while public broadcasters continue to grow stronger. Markus Preiss, a representative from ARD German TV, a public broadcaster, raises this issue. This complex challenge requires careful planning and consideration.
Challenges arise in constantly addressing misinformation. Markus Preiss expresses concerns about the potential fatigue and counterproductivity of continuously writing about misinformation, highlighting the need to strike a balance between addressing it and avoiding its further spread. This is particularly relevant to promoting SDG 16, which aims to foster peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Misinformation has damaging effects on the trust between healthcare providers and patients. A practitioner leading a global health movement emphasizes this issue. Misinformation not only undermines public health efforts but also leads to confusion and mistrust in healthcare decisions. Ensuring accurate and reliable information reaches people is crucial for informed decision-making and aligns with SDG 3, which promotes good health and well-being for all individuals.
In summary, public broadcasting, with its non-commercial model and balanced perspective, is seen as a potential solution in the media landscape. While AI has the power to gather extensive data, concerns remain about its ability to discern truth. Understanding the unique news consumption patterns of youth is important for meeting the goals of quality education and innovation. The Commission must navigate a future where public broadcasters thrive while private companies face challenges. Balancing the addressing of misinformation and avoiding its unintended spread is crucial. Lastly, ensuring accurate and reliable information is essential for rebuilding trust in healthcare and enabling informed decision-making.
Emma Tucker
Legacy brands such as the Wall Street Journal and New York Times still hold a significant level of trust, but they need to put in more effort to maintain it. Transparency in sourcing and reporting processes is crucial to build and maintain trust. Readers now expect to understand how news stories are gathered, and this transparency is key to establishing credibility.
Media outlets also need to be responsive to readers’ expectations and preferences. An open and responsive relationship with readers helps to build trust. Acknowledging and correcting mistakes promptly is important to maintain trust as well.
Reaching out to individuals who don’t engage with legacy brands is a challenge that needs to be addressed. Finding ways to connect and engage these individuals is essential for expanding the reach and impact of legacy brands.
The cost of news gathering is a significant challenge for media organizations. Running a newsroom and maintaining a team of journalists worldwide is expensive, but it is necessary for accurate reporting. Finding sustainable business models to support news gathering efforts while ensuring financial viability is important.
While subscription models have been successful for some legacy brands, there is a concern about inclusivity. Subscriptions can be expensive, limiting access to trusted news. It is important to explore solutions that ensure access to quality news for everyone.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to play a major role in news gathering in the future. AI can assist in tasks such as data analysis and information processing. However, human oversight and editorial control are still crucial to maintain journalistic standards.
Funding trusted independent news continues to be a challenge. Financial support is necessary to produce quality journalism free from influence or biases. Identifying sustainable funding models for independent news outlets is crucial for preserving the integrity and diversity of the media landscape.
Imprisonment and killings of journalists are increasing worldwide, posing a threat to press freedom. Addressing safety concerns is essential to uphold the principles of a free and independent press.
Young people care about news but may consume it in different formats. Adapting to the preferences of young audiences, such as using multimedia content and a casual conversation style, can help engage them and ensure the continuity of news consumption.
Education on the value of trusted news is needed to combat the spread of misinformation. Initiatives such as the ‘Use the News’ programme in Germany are essential in equipping people, especially young students, with the skills to critically evaluate sources and make informed judgments.
To confront the challenges posed by misinformation and disruption, the media industry must stay aware and proactive. Continuous innovation and adaptation, while upholding principles of accuracy, transparency, and accountability, are crucial.
In conclusion, legacy brands hold trust but need to work harder to maintain it. Transparency, responsiveness to reader expectations, acknowledgment and correction of mistakes, and reaching out to new audiences are vital. The cost of news gathering, inclusivity challenges, the role of AI in the future, funding trusted independent news, journalists’ safety, engaging young audiences, promoting media literacy, and confronting misinformation and disruption are all significant challenges the media industry faces.
Speakers
A
Audience
Speech speed
177 words per minute
Speech length
409 words
Speech time
139 secs
ET
Emma Tucker
Speech speed
212 words per minute
Speech length
1489 words
Speech time
422 secs
JB
Jeanne Bourgault
Speech speed
229 words per minute
Speech length
1097 words
Speech time
288 secs
ML
Mark Leonard
Speech speed
189 words per minute
Speech length
1506 words
Speech time
478 secs
MK
Meredith Kopit Levien
Speech speed
176 words per minute
Speech length
2381 words
Speech time
812 secs
VJ
Vera Jourová
Speech speed
153 words per minute
Speech length
1368 words
Speech time
538 secs
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