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Unesco Report: Two-Thirds of Digital Creators Share Content Without Fact-Checking
A new Unesco report reveals that 62% of digital content creators share information without fact-checking.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-28
Unesco Report: Two-Thirds of Digital Creators Share Content Without Fact-Checking

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) has revealed in its latest report, Behind the Screens, that 62% of digital content creators globally do not verify the accuracy of information before sharing it.

Released on November 26, 2024, the report provides the first global analysis of influencers’ motivations, practices, and challenges. The study surveyed 500 digital creators from 45 countries and highlighted concerning trends in online content dissemination.

Key Findings:

  • Fact-Checking Practices: Only 36.9% of creators regularly fact-check content, while 33.5% share posts based on trust in the source or creator.
  • Credibility Indicators: Nearly 42% use likes and shares as credibility markers, while only 17% rely on documentation or evidence supporting the content.
  • Sources of Information: Mainstream media ranks third (36.9%) as a source for content creators, after personal experience and independent research.

Challenges and Risks

The report highlights that many digital creators struggle to assess the credibility of online information, relying on superficial criteria such as popularity or personal trust networks.

Additionally, 59% of creators lack awareness of global standards for digital communication, making them vulnerable to legal risks, including prosecution in some countries.

Training for Change

Unesco has launched a groundbreaking four-week global training program for content creators, focusing on combating disinformation, addressing hate speech, and promoting media literacy. Over 9,000 participants from 160 countries have enrolled so far.

Audrey Azoulay, Unesco Director-General, emphasized the critical role influencers play in shaping public discourse:

“Digital content creators have acquired an important place in the information ecosystem. Unesco’s training will equip them to tackle disinformation and uphold freedom of expression.”
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