The Impact of Hate Speech and Disinformation on Politics and Geopolitics

    Hatedemics
    In a context where generative artificial intelligence, deepfakes and cross-border influence operations are reshaping online information, it is essential to understand the emerging risks. In this webinar, experts from civil society, media, research and and foresight will discuss emerging challenges and possible European responses.
    22/01/2026 | 11:00 — 12:30
    Virtual

    Topics include:

    New disinformation tactics & threats
    Fact-checking under pressure in the EU
    Localised impacts and grassroots resilience
    Predictive insights: vulnerabilities to watch in 2026
    Cross-sector tools and narratives to strengthen democratic resilience

     

    Agenda

    1. Welcome and Introduction

    Speaker: Andrew Staniforth, Saher

    • Brief overview of the webinar
    • Speaker introductions
    1. Project Introduction

    Speaker: Marco Guerini, FBK

    • Introduction to the HATEDEMICS project
    • Key achievements and tools developed
    1. The Role of Fact-Checking in Countering Disinformation Narratives

    Speaker: Silvia Cavasola, Pagella Politica

    • Current disinformation trends and the role of fact-checking 
    • Insights from the Italian and European media landscape
    • Bridging the gap between journalistic standards and social media dynamics
    1. Grassroots Responses to Disinformation and Hate Speech

    Speaker: Rachel Scicluna, SOS Malta

    • Localised impacts of online hate and disinformation in EU member states
    • Community-level resilience and NGO-led counter-narratives
    • Challenges in empowering youth and vulnerable communities
    1. Disinformation Foresight: What to Expect in 2026

    Speaker: [Name TBC], Textgain

    • Emerging tactics and digital manipulation techniques
    • Predictive modelling of disinformation spread
    • Key vulnerabilities and policy blind spots moving into 2026
    • Future trends 
    1. Q&A Session

    Moderator: Andrew Staniforth, Saher

    • Audience questions and speaker responses
    1. Closing Remarks

    Speaker: Andrew Staniforth, Saher

    • Summary of key takeaways
    • Encouragement to strengthen cross-sector collaboration
    • Highlighting future HATEDEMICS resources and events

    Register by sending an email to

    Link to participate  upon registration

     

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