Colombia Hosts UNESCO Media Literacy Week Amid Political Polarization and Press Freedom Concerns Ahead of 2026 Presidential Elections

UNESCO Conference in Colombia to Tackle AI-Fueled Misinformation

Cartagena de Indias, colombia – Colombia is preparing to host a major international conference focused on Media and Information Literacy (MIL) and its intersection with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The UNESCO-sponsored event, scheduled for October 23rd and 24th, arrives ahead of the nation’s 2026 presidential election, a period projected to see increased attempts at influencing public opinion.

The Growing Threat of Misinformation

Recent data highlights the urgency of the situation. A 2025 report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism indicates that 59% of Colombians identify misinformation as a important problem.Concurrently, approximately 76% of the population now relies on online sources for their news, amplifying the reach of possibly harmful content. This reliance necessitates a robust approach to media literacy.

UNESCO’s Ongoing Commitment to MIL

This conference builds upon UNESCO’s existing initiatives within Colombia. Prior projects include Media and Information Literacy training programs for young people in Cali and pilot programs testing a new MIL curriculum in 23 schools and two universities across the country.These efforts underline a long-term commitment to bolstering critical thinking skills and responsible information consumption.

“Minds Over AI” – The Conference Focus

The two-day conference, formally titled “Minds over AI – MIL in Digital Spaces,” will delve into the complex relationship between AI and the information landscape. Discussions will center on empowering individuals and institutions to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, with a particular focus on the impact on trust in media. Key topics will include the role of journalists, policy progress, and strategies for building resilience against online disinformation.

Press Freedom Concerns in Colombia

While the conference emphasizes empowerment through MIL, concerns remain about the habitat for journalism in Colombia. The nation’s leading media association has recently expressed alarm regarding threats to press freedom, urging citizens to defend the rights to expression and access to information. According to reports, Colombia ranked as the second most dangerous country for journalists in the Americas in 2024, with self-censorship and displacement becoming increasingly common.

media Ownership and Independence

The situation is compounded by a highly concentrated media ownership structure, similar to trends observed in other Latin American nations. Reports from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights have raised questions about the independence and autonomy of public media outlets, further reinforcing the importance of equipping citizens with the skills to critically evaluate information.

Key Statistic	Data Point
colombians viewing misinformation as a significant issue	59%
Colombians primarily accessing news online	76%
Colombia’s ranking for journalist safety in Americas (2024)	Second most dangerous

Did You Know? UNESCO’s Media and Information Literacy framework equips citizens with the knowledge and skills to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in a variety of forms.

Pro Tip: Always cross-reference information from multiple sources before sharing it online to minimize the spread of misinformation.

The Evolving Landscape of Information Literacy

The need for Media and Information literacy is not limited to Colombia; it is indeed a global imperative. The proliferation of AI-generated content, often referred to as “deepfakes,” poses an unprecedented challenge to discerning truth from falsehood. As AI technology becomes more elegant, the ability to critically assess information will become even more vital for maintaining a healthy democracy and informed citizenry.

Moreover,understanding algorithmic bias and the echo chambers created by social media platforms is crucial for responsible information consumption. Individuals must be aware of how their online experiences are shaped by algorithms and take proactive steps to diversify their sources of information.

Frequently Asked Questions about Media and Information Literacy

• What is Media and Information Literacy? It is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in a variety of forms.
• Why is MIL important in the age of AI? AI-generated content makes it harder to discern truth from falsehood, requiring stronger critical thinking skills.
• How can I improve my Media and Information Literacy? Practice cross-referencing information,diversifying your news sources,and being aware of algorithmic bias.
• What role do journalists play in promoting MIL? Journalists can model responsible reporting practices and educate the public about media literacy concepts.
• What is UNESCO doing to address misinformation? UNESCO supports MIL projects globally, including training programs and curriculum development.

What steps do you think are most critically important to combat the spread of misinformation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Does the article provide specific examples of disinformation campaigns observed in colombia?

Colombia is preparing to host UNESCO’s Global Media and Facts Literacy (MIL) Week 2025, commencing August 14, 2025. This event arrives at a especially sensitive juncture for the nation, as it navigates increasing political polarization and ongoing concerns regarding press freedom in the lead-up to the 2026 presidential elections. The focus on media literacy isn’t merely academic; it’s a critical intervention in a climate ripe for disinformation and manipulation.

The Current Landscape: Polarization and Information Warfare

Colombia’s political scene has become increasingly fractured in recent years. This division, coupled with the pervasive influence of social media, creates a fertile ground for the spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation campaigns.

* Increased Political Divide: Deep ideological rifts are fueling animosity and distrust between diffrent political factions.

* Social Media’s Role: Platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and WhatsApp are frequently used to disseminate biased or false information, often targeting specific demographics.

* Foreign Interference Concerns: While not definitively proven, there are growing anxieties about potential external actors attempting to influence public opinion.

* Impact on Public Trust: Eroding trust in traditional media outlets and institutions further exacerbates the problem.

This environment directly impacts the ability of citizens to make informed decisions, particularly as the 2026 presidential elections draw closer. Election integrity is paramount, and a well-informed electorate is its strongest defence.

Press Freedom under Scrutiny

Alongside the rise of disinformation, Colombia continues to grapple with challenges to press freedom. Journalists face threats, intimidation, and violence, hindering their ability to report freely and accurately.

* Threats to Journalists: Organizations like Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have documented numerous cases of threats against journalists in Colombia.

* Impunity: A lack of accountability for attacks on journalists perpetuates a climate of fear and self-censorship.

* Regional Disparities: The situation is particularly precarious in conflict-affected regions, where journalists are frequently enough caught in the crossfire.

* Digital Security Risks: Online harassment and doxing are increasingly common tactics used to silence critical voices.

The ability of the media to function independently and without fear is crucial for a healthy democracy. Restrictions on freedom of the press directly undermine the public’s right to know.

UNESCO’s Global MIL Week 2025: A Timely intervention

Hosting UNESCO’s Global MIL Week 2025 provides Colombia with a unique chance to address these challenges head-on. The event will spotlight the critical role of media and information literacy in empowering individuals to think critically and engage responsibly with information.

Key Focus Areas for the Week

The 2025 event is expected to heavily focus on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and media and information. Specific areas of discussion will likely include:

1. AI-Generated Content: Identifying and combating deepfakes and other forms of AI-generated disinformation.
2. Algorithmic Bias: Understanding how algorithms can reinforce existing biases and contribute to polarization.
3. Digital Rights: Protecting privacy and freedom of expression in the digital age.
4. Fact-Checking and Verification: Equipping citizens with the skills to verify information and identify credible sources.
5. Responsible AI Growth: Promoting ethical guidelines for the development and deployment of AI technologies.

Benefits of Enhanced Media Literacy in Colombia

Investing in media literacy education offers a multitude of benefits for Colombian society:

* Strengthened Democracy: An informed electorate is better equipped to participate in democratic processes and hold their leaders accountable.

* Reduced Polarization: Critical thinking skills can help individuals overcome confirmation bias and engage in constructive dialog.

* Improved Public Health: Accurate information is essential for making informed decisions about health and well-being.

* Economic Empowerment: Media literacy skills can definitely help individuals navigate the digital economy and avoid scams.

* Enhanced Social Cohesion: Promoting understanding and empathy can definitely help bridge divides and foster a more inclusive society.

Practical Tips for Improving Media Literacy

Individuals can take proactive steps to enhance their own media literacy skills:

* Diversify Your Sources: Don’t rely on a single news outlet or social media platform.

* Check the Source: Verify the credibility of the source before sharing information. Look for established organizations with a reputation for accuracy.

* Read Beyond the Headline: Click on the article and read the full story.

* Look for Evidence: Does the article provide supporting evidence for its claims?

* Be Wary of Emotional Appeals: Disinformation often relies on emotional manipulation.

* Use Fact-Checking Websites: Websites like Snopes,PolitiFact,and FactCheck.org can help you verify information.

* Consider the Author’s Bias: Be aware that all sources have a perspective.

Case Study: the 2018 Colombian Presidential Election and