By Mark Longyen
Dr Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, has called on the media to deploy modern technology tools to identify and counter anti-democratic narratives, combat disinformation, and uphold ethical journalism.
Touray gave the charge at a two-day training for journalists on ‘tackling misinformation, disinformation and anti-democratic narratives,’ on Wednesday in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training was jointly organised by ECOWAS; the German development agency, GIZ; Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) and Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).
Touray, represented by the Director of Cabinet in his office, Abdou Kolley, said ECOWAS had initiated proactive measures to strengthen the capacity of the media and reinforce democratic principles.
“Through this training initiative, we aim to equip journalists with the necessary tools to identify and counter anti-democratic narratives, combat disinformation, and uphold ethical journalism.
“Over the next two days, participants will be empowered with practical skills and knowledge to identify key actors and influencers behind these information campaigns and develop strategies to counter false narratives.
“It is, therefore, expected that at the end of this training, participants will be much stronger and better equipped to identify and analyse the actors, who are responsible for spreading false information,” he said.
Touray urged the participants to master advanced fact-checking methodologies to verify information and ensure accuracy in reporting, and also utilise open source intelligence tools to analyse trends and detect disinformation.
He also tasked them on leveraging artificial intelligence for enhanced investigative journalism, human rights violations investigations linked to disinformation and anti-democratic actions, and strengthen conflict-sensitive reporting to promote peace and social cohesion.
The commission’s president further challenged the media to foster media information literacy to help audiences discern credible information from falsehoods, adding that, “This training is more than just an event, it is a call to action.”
“You should foster media information and establish stronger collaboration between ECOWAS and media practitioners to promote democracy, good governance, and sustainable development.
“Apply fact-checking techniques, and open source information tools in investigative journalism, utilise AI-driven approaches to detect patterns in disinformation campaigns, and strengthen their role in safeguarding human rights.
“The knowledge gained here must be translated into impactful journalism that holds power to account, fosters peace, and strengthens democracy.
“It should also enhance ethical and responsible reporting, and promote media ethics, digital security, and legal considerations in journalism,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr Matthias Dold, Political Counselor, German Embassy, Abuja, noted that misinformation, disinformation, information disorder, and information pollution, were far spread, both in the West African subregion and in Europe.
According to him, such challenges affected the society but could be overcome with the support of the media and its support role in promoting and advocating for peace and regional stability in West Africa.
Dold said that, where misinformation and disinformation lead to discrimination, hate, or even violence, its effects could be very dangerous and detrimental to development, hence the need for responsible, ethical, and well-informed media.
“This training presents an opportunity for us to work together to curb the threats of disinformation and misinformation before they negatively impact our harmonious coexistence and the progress of the West African subregion.
“As the representative of the German government, I can assure you that we remain fully committed to supporting ECOWAS in this endeavour.
“Western countries are often the target of disinformation, we have a mutual interest in ensuring an open and responsible information sphere.
“We share a common vision with ECOWAS to address the region’s challenges, and to create opportunities for regional economic integration, peace and stability.
“As peace and stability in the region is not just beneficial to the region but also to Europe and to Germany,” he said.
Dr Kojo Impraim of the Media Foundation for West Africa, identified three major crises confronting the world, which he listed as political crisis, security crisis, and information disorder or pollution.
According to him, increased prevalence of misinformation and polarisation, particularly election-related misinformation, often intensify the threat to peace and democracy in the ECOWAS subregion.
“The media is caught up in this world, and unfortunately, have become a purveyor or transmitter of information disorder in the region, pushing out narratives, which are causing tension and division in our communities.
“The media, as a critical actor of democracy, is now becoming a strong actor when it comes to the spread of misinformation, and we need to confront it,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
