Researchers at MediaLab, under the leadership of Daniel Catalan, Director of UC3M MediaLab at Madrid University Carlos III, have commenced an ambitious project funded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This project was formalised through a contract between UNHCR and Madrid University Carlos III in December 2023. The interdisciplinary team at MediaLab aims to address the critical issues of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech on digital platforms, specifically targeting their impact on protection and displacement.
The overarching goal of the project is to develop a strategic plan to mitigate and reduce the adverse effects of hate speech and disinformation on digital media. This strategy aims to reduce xenophobia against refugees and migrants, and enhance the effectiveness of Communication with Communities (CwC) initiatives.
Key objectives of the project include providing a comprehensive understanding of how misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech manifest on digital platforms and their offline impacts. The research will assess the repercussions on the lives of refugees and migrants, as well as on the operations of UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies.
Furthermore, the project aims to identify the preferred means of communication evaluating the trust and effectiveness of current efforts and exploring potential mechanisms to extend their reach.
MediaLab's initiative is a critical step towards understanding and countering the harmful effects of digital misinformation and hate speech. By identifying effective communication strategies and fostering greater trust, the project aspires to create a safer and more informed environment for refugees and migrants. This collaboration with the UN system underscores the vital role of academic research in addressing global humanitarian challenges and supporting the mission of UNHCR in protecting vulnerable populations.
Daniel Catalán, at the UNHCR office in Arica, Chile
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