Misinformation is false or inaccurate information—getting the facts wrong. Disinformation is false information which is deliberately intended to mislead—intentionally misstating the facts and spreading them. This conference focused exclusively on disinformation.

On September 12th, the Clingendael Institute hosted the International Conference on Foreign Interference, Manipulation of Information, and Russian Strategic Narratives. The conference provided a forum for discussing the ongoing challenges of disinformation.

In today's world, where false information spreads rapidly, it is vital to discuss the possibility of implementing a coherent strategy for countering foreign disinformation. In a recent discussion, speakers Denys Demko (National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine), Raimonda Miglinaite Fritz (East StratCom Taskforce, EEAS), Koen Aartsma (Clingendael Institute), Ksenia Iliuk (Lets data), Mikael Tofvesson (Swedish Psychological Defense Agency), and Filip Stojanovski (Metamorphosis), along with moderators Julia Soldatiuk-Westerveld and Wouter Zweers explored this topic. They emphasized the importance of international collaboration to unravel the intricate tactics of disinformation, identify societal vulnerabilities, and safeguard public trust in the age of disinformation.

The opening speeches were given by Bob Deen, Head of the security Unit at the Clingendael Institute and His Excellency Ambassador of Ukraine Oleksandr Karasevych who shared recent experiences with disinformation spread by the Russian authorities since the invasion of Ukraine. The Ambassador emphasized the importance of facing the disinformation threat and the role of international cooperation in countering it.

Overall, the conference highlighted the importance of combining global expertise and strategies to combat disinformation. It emphasized the significance of adopting proactive and forward-thinking approaches and promoting a strong global dialogue. These initiatives play a crucial role in strengthening both resilience and the possibility of increased transparency, which is essential for upholding the core principles of informed democracy.

Watch the opening and closing statements of the conference