How disinformation is undermining our cities

Cities are increasingly faced with the consequences of concerted disinformation campaigns. These erode city capacity to address collective challenges including climate change, public health, and social cohesion. Yet disinformation research and response have been focused on the national and international realms. This research project understands how disinformation impacts cities, and how they can best collaborate to respond.

Disinformation and misinformation are nothing new in cities globally, with a long history of both sharing inaccurate information – misinformation, and concerted fabrications that are deliberately misleading – disinformation. From antisemitic campaigns to 9/11 conspiracies, there have been examples of disinformation throughout modern history. However, during the past decade, disinformation has exploded in both prevalence and impact.

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Learn more about the Disinformation in the city research project at the University of Melbourne