NNA - In a groundbreaking initiative to strengthen information integrity, combat digital mis- and disinformation and promote pluralistic media in Lebanon, the United Nations in Lebanon and Maharat Foundation are launching a national social media campaign to promote the Global Principles on Information Integrity, developed and launched by the United Nations in June 2024.
The campaign, which will run over 2 months on UN lebanon, UNIC Beirut and Maharat social media platforms, aims to equip journalists, media professionals, and the wider public with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the digital space responsibly and guide multistakeholder action for a healthier and safer information space that champions human rights and peaceful societies.
Through this strategic campaign, the UN Lebanon and Maharat have engaged media personnel from different media outlets and backgrounds in understanding and actively raising awareness about these Principles. Simultaneously, the campaign targets the public at large, equipping individuals with the skills needed to critically assess the information shared by the media they consume, safeguard their digital experiences and privacy, and protect their personal data.
At the heart of this communications campaign is a powerful message:“Information is a right, integrity is a responsibility.” To bring this message to life, the campaign comprises 20 short videos featuring 20 Lebanese journalists who break down key aspects of information integrity in a simplified format. These videos address essential topics, including media bias, misinformation vs. disinformation, fact-checking techniques, and the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in news content, among others.
Recognizing the timeliness and significance of this topic in Lebanon’s current landscape, the UN Deputy Special Coordinator, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Imran Riza says: “In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring the integrity of information is more critical than ever. Misinformation, disinformation and hate speech erode trust and fuel division. This joint campaign with Maharat affirms our shared commitment to truth, responsible journalism, and empowering people to make informed decisions and control their online experiences and data."
For her part, Founder and Executive Director of Maharat Foundation Roula Mikhael says:“In an era where information is increasingly weaponized, Maharat remains committed to building a healthier, rights-based information space. This campaign reflects our belief that information integrity is not just a technical challenge—it is a democratic imperative. By equipping journalists and the public with the knowledge and tools to navigate disinformation and defend their digital rights, we are fostering a culture of accountability, inclusivity, and informed public debate across Lebanon and the region.”
The Global Principles on Information Integrity consist of five interdependent principles: societal trust and resilience; independent, free, and pluralistic media; healthy incentives; transparency and research; and public empowerment, all based on an overriding vision of a more humane information ecosystem. As per the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, they call for an information environment that champions human rights and a sustainable future, providing a solid foundation for sustainable, inclusive development, climate action, democracy, and peace. --UNIC
