The essential skill of “media and information literacy”

“Raising awareness is the first line of defense against digital deception, disinformation and disinformation” | Photo credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Media and information literacy (MIL) has become an essential skill in the 21st century as we navigate digital landscapes in which the production, dissemination and consumption of public interest information is rapidly changing. Not long ago, COVID-19, the first pandemic of the social media era, highlighted the dangers of unverified or completely incorrect information. This “infodemic” has become a bigger threat than the virus itself, resulting in real consequences such as racial discrimination, social boycotts, and attacks on health workers.

More recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has raised many concerns, which include deepfakes, algorithmic biases, targeted disinformation campaigns and data privacy breaches – all of which pose risks to public trust, security and social cohesion. These challenges underscore the urgency of creating a trustworthy Internet to ensure that digital spaces are safe, reliable and inclusive.

The transformative impact of digital platforms and new content creators on the way we create and consume information highlights both opportunities and risks. This year’s Global Media and Information Literacy Week (24-31 October 2024) highlighted the need for MIL skills to help people identify, evaluate and engage with information of public interest online.

The two sides to digital touch

Digital platforms have become vital hubs for public discourse and cultural expression. With an estimated 4.75 billion people – 60% of the global population – engaged in social media in 2023, these spaces have transformed the way we communicate and connect like never before, allowing us to connect at a speed and scale never seen before now in history. of mankind. The rapid growth of digital technologies and artificial intelligence has further opened up endless opportunities for connectivity and information sharing. While they democratize access to information and promote a diversity of thought, they are also breeding grounds for the spread of misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and conspiracy theories.

This complex environment raises significant governance challenges that affect both democracy and social cohesion. The unchecked spread of false narratives undermines trust in information systems, widens social divisions, and ultimately impedes collective efforts to address global crises. This is why MIL is no longer a privilege, but an essential skill, equipping individuals to critically evaluate information and responsibly navigate digital spaces. For example, MIL encourages awareness of algorithmic biases and helps develop skills such as resistance to misinformation and reflexive fact-checking.

UNESCO has a long-standing commitment to MIL, either in education or in the communication and information space. In line with this mandate, in February 2024, UNESCO launched Global Citizenship Education in a Digital Age: Guidelines for Teachers, which aims to equip educators with tools to navigate digital spaces ethically and contribute to peaceful societies , both online and offline.

Implications of AI risks

The risks presented by AI are not just technical; they have broad societal implications, requiring immediate government action. In 2023, UNESCO launched the Guidelines for the Governance of Digital Platforms that outline five key principles to create safer and more ethical digital spaces. These guidelines are based on five core principles to create a digital ecosystem based on trust and inclusion. First, Human Rights Due Diligence calls for regular risk assessments by platforms to mitigate potential human rights impacts, especially during critical periods such as elections. Second, “Adherence to International Standards” ensures that content design and moderation aligns with global human rights norms to protect equality and non-discrimination. Third, “Transparency” emphasizes clear communication about policies and practices so that users can make informed choices. Fourth, “Empowering Users” encourages platforms to provide accessible tools and information in local languages, allowing everyone, especially vulnerable groups, to meaningfully engage. Finally, “Accountability to Stakeholders” emphasizes the need for platforms to be accountable to a wide range of stakeholders, including independent regulators, and to stay true to their promises of safety and openness. Together, these principles promote a collaborative approach between governments, civil society and technology entities, paving the way for freedom of expression and access to trusted information, all while preserving the integrity of our shared digital world.

UNESCO also promotes the ethical use of AI, emphasizing the importance of MIL to ensure that individuals can critically understand and engage with AI technologies. Its Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) is part of the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence — the first global regulatory instrument on AI, adopted in 2021. This methodology guides UNESCO member states in implementing AI ethical standards, equipping citizens with the skills to discern and use AI-based information responsibly. UNESCO works with more than 50 countries, including India, where it collaborates with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to assess AI capabilities. In India, RAM helps policymakers identify the regulatory and institutional changes needed to harness the benefits of AI while mitigating risks.

Awareness as the first line of defense

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast on 27 October 2024 highlighted the alarming rise in ‘digital’ scams, urging citizens to adopt a ‘stop, think and act’ approach. This call highlights the vital role of MIL in empowering people to recognize digital threats and respond responsibly. As technological advances leap forward, strengthening MIL skills in every community becomes essential. Raising awareness is the first line of defense against digital fraud, disinformation, misinformation and creating an “internet of trust”.

Tim Curtis is the director of UNESCO