Pakistan Among Countries Most Affected by Misinformation and Disinformation

Islamabad: Pakistan has been included in the list of countries most affected by misinformation and disinformation, according to the Global Risks Report 2024 by the World Economic Forum. The report highlights that false information has become one of the most significant threats faced by the world today.
Experts worldwide have identified misinformation and disinformation as major challenges for several nations in the next two years, affecting not just societal harmony but also economic, political, and environmental sectors.
The report indicates that Pakistan is severely impacted by the spread of false narratives, which are expected to remain one of the country’s top challenges in the coming years. Misinformation is ranked as the 4th to 6th most significant threat to Pakistan’s overall stability.
The spread of misleading information in Pakistan has been fueling sectarianism, religious conflicts, and social divisions, undermining social cohesion. This issue is not only causing social unrest but also impacting political stability, the credibility of democratic institutions, and public trust.
India ranks first in terms of exposure to misinformation, followed by the United States in sixth place. The United Kingdom and Mexico are ranked eleventh, while Indonesia is ranked eighteenth.
The World Economic Forum’s analysis warns that if the problem of misinformation is not addressed, it could weaken democratic institutions and lead to political instability.
To tackle this growing threat, the report emphasizes the need for not only legislative action but also increased social awareness, educational reforms, and transparency on digital platforms.