The modern era of disinformation can be traced back to the 1980s when operatives from the then Soviet Union propagated a false narrative claiming that the AIDS epidemic was deliberately created in a US government laboratory. This disinformation campaign, known as Operation Infektion, was a vast, worldwide operation aimed at undermining the US and its allies, sowing doubt, and fueling social and political tensions across the globe.
Today, disinformation spreads at an alarming pace due to the immediate access to information provided by modern social networks. While it’s not a new phenomenon, the emotional nature of disinformation often propels it through personal social networks. Disinformation can originate from various sources, both foreign and domestic, and its impact is far-reaching in the real world.
To combat disinformation, the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO), an independent EU-funded project, aims to bring together fact-checkers, researchers, and stakeholders. EDMO focuses on the resilience of societies and addresses disinformation regardless of its origin, using a multidisciplinary approach to understand and counteract it.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, emotions played a significant role in the spread of disinformation, with people sharing information out of fear without verifying its accuracy. It is crucial to recognize that not all disinformation is maliciously created; some may arise as a response to complex situations.
EDMO supports the creation of a cross-border and multidisciplinary community of independent fact-checkers and academic researchers in the EU to detect and analyze disinformation threats and trends across Europe, utilizing local knowledge to improve their efforts.
However, while fighting disinformation, EDMO also upholds freedom of expression and acknowledges that individuals are entitled to their opinions. Disinformation poses challenges in the Information Age, as bad information can have severe consequences on public health, global issues, and societal harmony.
EDMO recognizes the complexities of disinformation’s origins and dynamics, with various incentives driving the dissemination of fake news. The phenomenon is likely to persist, and fact-checking alone is not enough to combat it effectively. EDMO’s broader mission involves a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to tackle disinformation and increase awareness for better-informed decision-making.
Ultimately, each individual bears the responsibility to make informed choices, and EDMO is there to support this process by promoting the availability of high-quality information. By fostering awareness and understanding, EDMO aims to empower people to navigate the information landscape more effectively.