EU-DEM – EU Fact Checker Network

Abstract

This project addresses media disinformation in the EU by promoting media literacy, understanding gendered narratives, and protecting democratic values. The initiative focuses on countering disinformation and democratic interference, involving 1,052 participants of diverse backgrounds.

Activities

After the start of the EU DEM (EU Fact-Checker Network project) with an international event in Brussels and development of educational materials and an online platform, the project continues with a series of activities in Belgium, France, Hungary, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain, including:

• A localised awareness campaign consisting of a Disinformation Awareness Campaign and a Youth-led Media Campaign in six countries;
• A teacher training on media literacy in five countries;
• Media literacy workshops and fact-checking competitions in six countries;
• Gendered disinformation workshops and minority community outreach and storytelling workshops in six countries;
• Sensitization seminar for policymakers and establishment of the EU Fact Checker Network in Brussels, Belgium.

Further information about project activities and deliverables is shared on the ICRP’s Facebook page and the project website.

With a dynamic and multidisciplinary network, the project strives to raise awareness, educate, and inspire, contributing to the creation of stronger communities and fostering increasingly inclusive and informed civic participation.

Target groups and expected results:

• CSOs: Promote grassroots projects and connect citizens.
• Educators/Youth Workers: Engage youth through education and feedback.
• Youth/Young Adults: Gain media literacy skills through programs and workshops.
• Women’s Groups: Address underrepresentation in civic discussions.
• Gender-Based Groups: Combat gendered misinformation.
• Marginalized Communities: Build resilience against disinformation.
• Young Cartoonists: Use visuals to educate on disinformation risks.
• Journalists: Act as educators and fact-checkers.
• Local Policymakers: Tailor initiatives to local contexts.
• EU Policymakers: Share findings and advocate for EU-wide policy changes.

These groups collectively aim to strengthen European democracy.

The project is divided into 7 work packages, integrating education, campaigns, training, creative resources, community engagement, and policy advocacy. Over 24 months, 14 activities in 6 countries will produce 38 deliverables, including training materials, an e-learning platform, comics, and competitions for youth.

Downloads:

• Psychology of disinformation (infograph) – pdf
• The crucial difference between disinformation and misinformation (guidelines for users) – pdf
• The crucial difference between disinformation and misinformation (interactive presentation) – pdf
• Media literacy and civic participation (handbook) – pdf
• Verification Flowchart – pdf
• Disinformation Detection Checklist – pdf
• Glossary Book – pdf
• From Training to Action: Case Studies in Media Literacy for Democracy (manual) – pdf