Disinformation—in the traditional media, online, and elsewhere—is a major challenge to democracy. How can disinformation be combatted in the context of the proliferation of fake news? What role can citizens play? This panel discussion, organised as a part of the Geneva Democracy Week, will put four panelists, from different countries and with different backgrounds, into conversation on these pressing questions.
Mohammad-Mahmoud Ould Mohamedou will analyse, from a global perspective, how "populism" has been constructed through specific communication strategies. Ana Arana Antelo from the European Commission will reflect on the initiatives from the European Union designed to promote citizens’ intervention in monitoring and shaping information flows. Flavia Kleiner, who launched Operation Libero in Switzerland, will share her experience of organising a movement of young citizens against right-wing-inspired referenda, responding to populists that “don’t have a monopoly on emotions”. Adam Ramsay (tbc) will speak on his work in a civil society-based journalist network about the challenges of countering disinformation about Brexit. Together, they will provide insights on how citizens can help better tackle "fake news", propaganda, and disinformation.
Panelists:
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Ana Arana Antelo, European Commission, Adviser to the Deputy Director General for Research and Innovation, covering Citizens’ involvement in science and innovation policies
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Flavia Kleiner, Co-President and Executive Director, Operation Libero, Switzerland
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Mohammad-Mahmoud Ould Mohamedou, Professor of International History and Head of the International History Department, Graduate Institute, Geneva
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Adam Ramsay (tbc), Co-editor, OpenDemocracy, United Kingdom
Moderator:
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Shalini Randeria, Professor, Department of Anthropology and Sociology and Director of Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy
Organisator: Graduate Institute
Place : Maison de la paix, auditoire Pictet B