The decline in trust in the media, the impact of disinformation on the global information landscape and geopolitical agenda, the use of social media as a news source, and the role of sustainable journalism in tackling these challenges are all issues that require the engagement of media actors and representatives of state institutions.
The Council of Europe has convened leading experts to develop solutions for combating propaganda and supporting independent journalism, acknowledging the vital role of journalists in countering disinformation and upholding trust in democratic institutions, particularly in light of Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine. This commitment by the Council of Europe is enshrined in the Reykjavík Declaration – United Around Our Values.
The conference “Strengthening Reliable Information and Journalism: The Council of Europe’s Actions Against Disinformation” focused on enhancing media literacy, promoting ethical journalism, and exploring the Council of Europe's tools for safeguarding information, including fact-checking initiatives and the regulation of content generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).
Among the speakers from Ukraine was Olena Churanova, a representative of the Ukrainian fact-checking organisation StopFake. Her participation was supported by the Council of Europe’s Division for Co-operation on Freedom of Expression and the project “Safeguarding Freedom of Expression and Freedom of Media in Ukraine”.
In her speech, Ms Churanova discussed Ukraine's experience in combating Russian propaganda, highlighting the importance of fact-checking and regulating AI-generated content, as well as involving experts in the development of public policies and digital content regulation.
"We are already witnessing dangerous trends in countries once considered benchmarks of democracy. That is why it is invaluable that the Council of Europe listens to experts before moving forward with practical measures in the fight against propaganda and disinformation," said Ms Churanova.
The conference concluded with a set of recommendations for the Council of Europe and its Member States, focusing on international co-operation, policy development, and innovative approaches to safeguarding the integrity of information in the digital age.
The Council of Europe Project “Safeguarding Freedom of Expression and Freedom of Media in Ukraine” (SFEM-UA) is implemented by the Council of Europe Division for Co-operation on Freedom of Expression in the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine “Resilience, Recovery and Reconstruction” 2023-2026.
