Mar 04
2021
Past event
The spread of conspiracy myths online: what are the implications for human rights?
In her message for International Holocaust Remembrance Day, High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet reminded us that ‘Words have consequences.’ Indeed she remarked that ‘conspiracy theorists increasingly link extreme political ideologies and antisemitic delusions,’ recalled the responsibilities of governments and digital platforms and stressed that we need to push back against lies, ensure that public discourse is based on facts and invest in human rights education.
On Thursday 4th March 2021, the Universal Rights Group in corporation with the World Jewish Congress will be organising a side event in the margins of the 46th session of the Human Rights Council on ‘The spread of conspiracy myths online: what are the implications for human rights?’
This side event will explore the global rise of conspiracy myths, including in the context of the present pandemic and of rising threats to democracy (e.g. the QAnon conspiracy theory in the US), and its nexus with antisemitism and the targeting of other minorities. Media reports point to the growing influence and reach of such myths in the digital world, as well as the deepening impact on human rights of the broader phenomenon of digital disinformation. The panel of experts will discuss the different facets of this phenomenon, its consequences for economic, social, civil and political rights, and also offer ideas on how to remedy this situation, from a human rights perspective.
More information about the event can be found here.
Please register for the event here.
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- Mar 4th 2021
- 13:00 - 14:30
- Public event
