Misinformation Dents Key Institutions

In a world where information travels faster than ever, misinformation has emerged as a formidable challenge in Nepal, undermining public trust and complicating the landscape of information dissemination. A staggering 91 per cent of social media users in Nepal encounter misinformation regularly, according to a 2023 survey by the Centre for Media Research. With platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp serving as primary conduits for this false information, discerning truth from falsehood has become increasingly difficult for the average citizen.

Nepal's media ecosystem has historically been fragile, characterised by limited resources and a lack of independent journalism. The rise of user-generated content has blurred the lines between credible journalism and sensationalism. 

Many individuals, lacking proper media literacy, contribute to the spread of misinformation, believing that everything shared online is factual. For instance, misleading reports about public figures, such as false claims regarding Rojita Budahacharya's scholarship to NASA, illustrate how easily misinformation can spread and erode public trust. Misinformation can be categorised into three main types: misinformation (false information), disinformation (deliberately deceptive information), and mal-information (true information used harmfully). Each category poses unique challenges, from undermining public health to eroding trust in democratic institutions. 

Impacts 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation about vaccines and treatment options led to widespread confusion and hesitancy among the public, demonstrating the real-world consequences of false information. The impact of misinformation extends beyond individual beliefs; it can destabilise communities and incite social unrest. The 2022 elections in Nepal saw an increase in disinformation tactics, with political actors using fake news to manipulate public opinion and discredit opponents. Such tactics not only undermine the electoral process but also contribute to a culture of distrust and division within society.

The consequences of misinformation are profound. Public health can be severely affected, as seen when false narratives about vaccines led to increased hesitancy and refusal to seek necessary medical care. For instance, during the pandemic, rumours about the dangers of vaccines circulated widely, causing many to avoid vaccination altogether. This not only jeopardized individual health but also posed a significant risk to public health efforts aimed at controlling the spread of the virus.

Politically, misinformation can destabilise environments, influencing voter behaviour and eroding the integrity of democratic processes. The 2022 elections highlighted this issue, as various political factions employed disinformation campaigns to sway public opinion. Reports indicated that fabricated stories about candidates and their policies were rampant, leading to confusion among voters and potentially altering the election outcomes. Such tactics not only undermine the electoral process but also contribute to a culture of distrust and division within society.

Socially, misinformation can fuel polarisation and unrest, undermining community cohesion and leading to conflicts. The spread of false information can exacerbate existing tensions within communities, particularly in a diverse society like Nepal, where ethnic and cultural differences can be sensitive issues. For example, during times of political unrest or social upheaval, misinformation can incite violence and exacerbate divisions among different groups.

Furthermore, continuous exposure to misinformation can erode public trust in media, government, and other institutions, making it increasingly difficult for these entities to function effectively. When citizens are bombarded with conflicting information, they may become cynical and distrustful, questioning the motives of journalists, politicians, and public health officials. This erosion of trust can have long-lasting effects on societal cohesion and governance.

Addressing the misinformation challenge requires a multifaceted approach, with media literacy at its core. Media literacy empowers individuals to critically analyse the complex media landscape, enabling informed decision-making and fostering active societal participation. Unfortunately, media literacy is not prioritised in Nepal's educational framework, leaving many citizens ill-equipped to navigate the digital information landscape. The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has initiated media literacy programmes tailored to journalists, but broader initiatives are necessary. The Centre for Media Research – Nepal (CMR-Nepal) has launched several initiatives aimed at spreading media and information literacy (MIL) among youths, including training teachers and providing resources for workshops. These efforts are crucial in empowering the next generation to critically engage with media content.

Moreover, the recent National Media and Information Literacy Conference organised by UNESCO brought together stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting MIL in Nepal. Initiatives like these are essential for fostering a culture of critical thinking and discernment among the populace. Media expert Dr. Shree Krishna Shrestha says: "Empowering citizens with the skills to critically evaluate information is the first step in combating misinformation."

While Nepal lacks a comprehensive legal framework to tackle misinformation, existing laws provide a foundation for addressing harmful content. Nepal's constitution includes provisions that restrict communications undermining public order and safety. However, enforcement remains inconsistent, and many individuals continue to share misleading information without consequence. To effectively combat misinformation, Nepal must prioritise the development of a cohesive regulatory framework that not only penalises the spread of false information but also promotes accountability among media producers. Public awareness campaigns, community initiatives, and educational programmes can empower citizens to recognise and challenge misinformation, fostering a more informed society.

The challenge of misinformation is significant, but it is not insurmountable. By enhancing media literacy, strengthening fact-checking initiatives, and developing a comprehensive regulatory framework, Nepal can create a more resilient information ecosystem. It is imperative for all stakeholders—government, media, civil society, and the public—to collaborate in this endeavour.

Responsibility

The responsibility to combat misinformation lies not only with media professionals but also with each individual. By fostering critical thinking and encouraging proactive engagement with information, citizens can pierce through the fog of misinformation and emerge empowered to locate and promote what is correct. As Dr. Ramesh Shrestha, a prominent journalist, aptly states, "In the battle against misinformation, knowledge is our greatest weapon." Only through collective action can Nepal hope to mitigate the impact of misinformation and ensure that accurate information prevails in the digital age.

In conclusion, the fight against misinformation is not merely a media issue; it is a societal imperative. As misinformation continues to evolve and adapt, so too must our strategies for combating it. By investing in education, fostering media literacy, and promoting transparency, Nepal can build a more informed citizenry capable of navigating the complexities of the information age. The path forward requires commitment from all sectors of society, ensuring that truth prevails over falsehood and that the integrity of information is upheld for the benefit of all.

(The author is an Associate Professor at Tribhuvan University.)