That prompts the question: how should they handle this? Should the EU intervene to curb the spread of disinformation, or does this risk censorship and an infringement on freedom of expression?
Researchers Caroline Verduin and Theo Zijderveld are currently investigating these issues. This summer, they will present the first draft of a toolkit designed to help professionals strengthen their resilience in an era of misinformation and disinformation. Packed with concrete guidance for both policy and practice, this toolkit will be applicable across various fields – from police officers to government ministries.
Why this research?
Mis-and disinformation are increasingly pressing issues, as confirmedby the interviews Caroline and Theo conductedwith professionals from different sectors.
In discussions with Members of the European Parliament and European Commission officials, they observed that disinformation and conspiracy theories are already major concerns at the EU level. However, in similar conversations at various Dutch ministries, it became clear that expertise on this topic is still developing.
Caroline and Theo are already integrating these insights into their teaching at The Hague University of Applied Sciences’ Public Administration programme. Their research is also drawing interest from government ministries, particularly in the practical applications of the forthcoming toolkit.
The toolkit as a solution
To develop the toolkit, Caroline and Theo are gathering experiences from public-sector professionals. What skills do they need to remain resilient against disinformation? What challenges do they encounter? The answers to these questions will inform concrete tools such as educational materials, training sessions, and workshops. Their goal is to equip professionals with the media literacy and resilience needed to navigate this landscape.
Disinformation and its impact on professionals
Disinformation affects not only public-sector professionals but also has broader societal and geopolitical consequences. Caroline and Theo describe the current era as a “post-truth” age. “The distinction between truth and falsehood, fact and fiction, is becoming increasingly blurred,” they explain. This fuels polarisation and erodes trust in politics and public institutions.
Disinformation can even threaten national security, particularly when state actors use it as a tool to destabilise the EU. As part of their research, Caroline and Theo are examining how local, national, and EU policies and regulations can help counteract this phenomenon.
For professionals such as healthcare workers, teachers, and politicians, recognising disinformation can be challenging. With the rise of generative AI and social media, extreme and shocking news often gains disproportionate attention. As a result, conspiracy theories can spread rapidly, sometimes leading to dangerous situations.
Professionals increasingly find themselves facing threats and verbal abuse from individuals who believe these conspiracy theories. This pressure undermines the credibility and integrity of their work. Through their toolkit, Caroline and Theo aim to provide professionals with the skills and confidence needed to stand firm in an era dominated by misinformation.
Want to know more?
With financial support from The Hague University of Applied Sciences, the Jean Monnet Chair on European Digital Policy, and the Dutch Network for Media Literacy, Caroline and Theo continue their research.
Would you like to share your professional experiences with disinformation? We would love to hear your insights! Get in touch with us.
