Fight against ‘fake news’ needs proper resources

THE imperative of turning back the tide on fake news is something that should concern all of us. Information that affects all of our lives must be ironclad and valued. Anything that interferes with a person’s right to know must rightly be regarded as a distortion of truth. That is why the report from the EU High Level Expert Group on ‘fake news’ published yesterday demands a response. All those with an interest in transparency, accountability and the dissemination of reliable news have a role. The acknowledgement and readiness of both Google and Facebook to participate in the process must also be regarded as positive.

There is too much at stake for any complacency. We have seen interference in elections and the corrosive impact unchecked fake news can have. Its devastating effect must be recognised for what it is: a toxic threat to democracy.

The focus of the report is to target intentional disinformation, either for a political or commercial motive.

Fact-checking, accuracy, transparency and quality procedures are all steps that can and must be mobilised to combat the backwash of calculated falsehoods that are used to manipulate and massage messages. This demands a recognition of responsibility and must be underpinned by the necessary resources.

If we are to protect news and promote trust then we must value facts and differentiate the authentic from the fraudulent and the false. This may involve public and private funding. Whatever about footing the cost for the truth, the cost of ignoring it is higher.