To Change the Migration Narrative, We Need Fact-Checkers

This article originally appeared on Medium

A combination of factors influence disinformation’s spread: changes in consumption patterns, lack of media literacy, loss of trust in journalism and the lack of business models for digital media each contribute.

Maldita.es is an independent non-profit fact-checking media outlet. One of three inquiries we receive relates to migrants and refugees. The vast amount of disinformation circulating is increasing hate speech towards refugees and migrants and contributes to polarise the public and political debate.

Ashoka insight

We employ the same language as hoaxers do in order to fight against algorithms. Our project’s name, Maldita Migración, literally means “Damned Migration.” Using this name, we’re able to attract an audience seeking out the negative and then redirect them towards reliable data that debunks their beliefs. We need to provide people with facts and verified information so they can make up their own minds.