Effectively countering disinformation. Perspectives from every continent.

Disinformation is spread in every part of the world. In this comparative report, we analyse similarities and differences based on a 6-part international research series commissioned and supported by the Upgrade Democracy team between 2023-2024 under the theme “strengthening democracy, countering disinformation.” We compare the varying information ecosystems; the perpetrators of disinformation and the topics they exploit; protagonists in dealing with disinformation; and the role of state institutions and technological developments in this field. Our analysis shows, among other things, the ambivalent role of governments, which in some regions support the resilience of information ecosystems and in others disseminate disinformation themselves. We also refer to the influence of artificial intelligence on elections, the role of zero-rating and a growing business model for disinformation campaigns.  Against this backdrop, we emphasise the importance of a strong civil society and robust regulation of digital platforms that strengthens transparency, openness, and inclusion.