OANA, GFCN Set To Collaborate On Fact Checks, Reliability Of Info In Digital Space

From Salawaty Supardi

MOSCOW, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- In an effort to counteract disinformation and the spread of fake news, media organisations under the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA) have joined forces to improve fact-checking and enhance the reliability of information in the digital space.

A memorandum of understanding and cooperation (MoU) to that effect was signed here today between OANA and the Global Fact-Checking Network (GFCN).

OANA was represented at the signing ceremony by its President, Andrey Kondrashov, who is also Russian state news agency TASS Director-General. GFCN was represented by its President Vladimir Tabak.

Also present at the ceremony were Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj. Bernama is a member of the executive board of OANA.

Under the agreement, both parties are set to collaborate in organising and improving fact-checking efforts, disseminating reliable information, and developing and promoting new methods and technologies for verifying facts and information.

The MoU also provides both sides with mutual support in terms of expertise, advisory, information, and education.

In addition, OANA and GFCN agree to coordinate, plan, and consult each other in joint research projects on the subjects of journalism, media communications, and fact-checking.

All activities under the MoU are to be carried out in accordance with international law and with respect for national legal systems, and entered into force on the date of signing and remained valid until the conclusion of a main cooperation agreement.

Strong ties and a unified approach are imperative to counter disinformation and the spread of false information in an interconnected world. In recognition of this, OANA and GFCN have expressed readiness to establish a partnership based on equality, goodwill, respect, mutual consideration of interests, and mutual support.

The MoU was among the highlights of the 58th OANA EBM and technical committee meeting which opened on Sunday.

OANA was established in 1961 at the initiative of United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (Unesco). The grouping currently has 41 members from 35 countries, with 13 of the news agencies serving on its executive board.

TASS, which currently holds the OANA presidency, is chairing the four-day meeting that also marks the 65th anniversary of the formation of the grouping.

-- BERNAMA