The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has organized an online training session for Libyan journalists and media professionals, aimed at strengthening their skills in digital research and fact-checking as part of its Basira program.
According to UNSMIL, more than 30 journalists, academics, media students, and fact-checkers participated in the training held last Thursday. The initiative comes in response to the growing spread of misinformation and disinformation in Libya’s media landscape.
Google News Initiative Leads Training
Pamela Kesrouani from the Google News Initiative led the session, demonstrating how to effectively use Google verification tools, including reverse image search, Google Maps, Google Earth, and YouTube’s fact-check panels.
“These tools don’t replace our work, but they support it,” Kesrouani said, stressing that journalists must always verify photos and news themselves before publication.
Rising Threat of Disinformation
Kesrouani highlighted the increasing risks posed by fabricated content, manipulated photos, and AI-generated videos, particularly during wars, natural disasters, and pandemics. She cited a Pew Research Center study, which found that people view online disinformation as a major global threat, second only to climate change.
“Even major media outlets have sometimes published photos or videos taken out of context,” she noted.
Libyan Media Faces Unique Challenges
Participants emphasized that digital verification training is crucial for Libya’s media professionals, given the country’s environment of widespread rumors, misinformation, lack of transparency, and limited access to original sources.
They also expressed concern over the impact of disinformation on Libya’s fragile security situation, warning that false or misleading online content could deepen divisions and incite conflict.
UNSMIL stressed that the Basira program reflects its continued commitment to supporting an independent, professional, and resilient media sector in Libya.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
