Gender disinformation: a challenge for equality in the digital age
Gender disinformation is defined as the intentional dissemination of false information to undermine the credibility of women, feminist activists and LGTBIQ+ people. This phenomenon has existed for decades, but its spread has been intensified with social networks and new technologies, which allow the immediate viralization of misleading content.
According to the study, gender disinformation is closely related to other types of information manipulation. However, its specific aim is to erode the rights and representation of historically marginalized groups.
The document highlights how this form of manipulation can have devastating effects. According to the ONG Plan International, 87% of young women feel negatively affected by online disinformation, experiencing anxiety and a reduction in their participation in political and social spaces. This contributes to the invisibility of women in public debate and to the perpetuation of patriarchal structures.
In addition, gender disinformation is a tool used by political parties and the media to delegitimize equality policies and curb the advancement of rights. Disinformation campaigns often use toxic narratives to discredit feminism and the LGTBIQ+ movement, using strategies such as exaggeration, image manipulation and the creation of fake news.
The study proposes several strategies to combat this phenomenon such as digital literacy, which consists of educating the population from an early age to critically evaluate information and detect false content. It also proposes to generate positive discourses based on facts that disassemble messages of disinformation or collective actions that promote collaboration between journalists, activists and institutions to face disinformation effectively. In addition, it is recommended to implement public policies that regulate the dissemination of false content and protect vulnerable groups from digital attacks.
The study concludes that gender disinformation is a real threat to democracy and equality. Their struggle requires a coordinated and transversal response, in which governments, the media and civil society work together to ensure a safer and more respectful digital space for all.
To read the chapter or the full report, check it here.