In a partnership with major technology companies and organizations supported by George Soros, the United Nations has launched a new “automated” fact-checking initiative aimed at countering disinformation and hate speech online.
The United Nations Development Programme has created the iVerify platform to address what they perceive as a rising global challenge of “online information pollution.” The platform aims to combat alleged disinformation and hate speech by providing tools to verify and authenticate online content.
Misinformation, disinformation & hate speech threaten peace & security, disproportionately affecting those who are already vulnerable.
iVerify is our automated fact-checking tool that can help identify false information & prevent its spread.#NoToHate https://t.co/ura33T718V pic.twitter.com/VJzj9VxNUo
— UN Development (@UNDP) June 18, 2023
The United Nations, in collaboration with the United Nations International Computing Centre, fact-checking organizations such as Meedan (funded by Facebook and Google), CrowdTangle (owned by Meta) and the International Fact-Checking Network funded by Soros, has developed an “automated fact-checking tool.” This tool aims to address the challenges of disinformation by leveraging technology and expertise from these organizations.
The U.N. Development Programme says, “Misinformation, disinformation and hate speech threaten peace and security, disproportionately affecting those who are already vulnerable.”
Described as an “automated fact-checking tool,” the iVerify software has the capability to detect false information and play a role in preventing and mitigating its dissemination. The organization intends to provide this technology to “national actors” to assist them in identifying, monitoring and responding to potential threats that undermine information integrity.
The United Nations stated that the support package encompasses various elements such as digital tools, modules for capacity building, partnership opportunities, as well as communication and outreach strategies, among other components.
As the platform is currently being actively employed in Sierra Leone ahead of the upcoming general elections scheduled for June 24, the widespread use of this automated fact-checking tool could have an immediate impact beyond the borders of the country.
According to the United Nations, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists and the Independent Radio Network will utilize the technology to enhance the country’s ability to proactively identify and address misinformation, disinformation and hate speech.
With the support of the Irish and Swedish embassies, along with the involvement of California-based Internews, the iVerify system is set to deploy in preparation for the upcoming elections in Liberia.
Internews, founded by David Hoffman, who previously identified as a Marxist, receives significant support from the U.S. government and George Soros’ Open Society Foundations. Notably, Susan Rice, former National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama, has previously served on Internews’ board of directors.
The U.N. initiative has encountered substantial criticism, including from renowned Canadian professor and psychologist Jordan Peterson, who referred to the automatic fact-checking system as an “Orwellian nightmare.”
