Misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the new age of artificial intelligence, are among the biggest global risks right now, particularly for democracies. The spreading of inaccurate, false, or misleading information online makes it much more difficult for voters to make informed decisions.
In the run-up to elections, such practices have the potential to manipulate and polarise public opinion, swing an election in a particular direction, or create uncertainty about official election results with significant consequences for public policy, populations, natural resources, and economic growth. A lot is at stake where policymakers face the challenge of finding the right balance between mitigating risks and safeguarding the right to freedom of expression.