The project "Examining the Factors of Vulnerability and Resilience: The Nexus Between Disinformation and Interethnic Relations in Kosovo" supported by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) Kosovo aims to address the critical issue of how disinformation impacts ethnic relations in Kosovo, particularly between the Albanian and Serb communities. Disinformation, often fueled by historical grievances and amplified by modern communication technologies, has significantly hampered the normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia. It stokes distrust, hardens public opinion, and undermines efforts towards reconciliation and cooperation. The 2024 Vulnerability Index of Disinformation in Kosovo underscores this issue, revealing that interethnic relations are the most susceptible sector to disinformation, with a vulnerability score of 69 out of 100. This project's objective is to identify the specific factors contributing to this vulnerability and to develop policy recommendations against disinformation.
To achieve its objectives, the project will undertake a series of activities, starting with desktop research to review existing literature and analyze reports on disinformation and interethnic relations. This will be followed by focus group discussions with representatives from different ethnic communities in Kosovo to gather qualitative data on their perceptions and experiences. Key informant interviews with experts in disinformation, interethnic relations, and media literacy will provide additional insights. The collected data will be compiled into a report, which will be peer-reviewed and finalized for publication. The project will culminate in the dissemination of findings at the NDI's 8th Information Integrity Conference DISICON in December 2024.
Project has started on September 2024 and it is expected to be concluded by December 2024.
