The truth matters: our vision to stop disinformation
Truth and honest public debate are vital during an election campaign. But experience in Australia and around the world shows that elections are precisely when some candidates and media platforms choose to spread disinformation for their own financial and political gain.
Disinformation targets people’s fears and anxieties. It is used to create division and to polarise our communities. We need those in power to step up and prevent Australia from going further down this path.
This is why the Human Rights Law Centre has convened 15 community, human rights and civil society groups to call on politicians and candidates to stand up for truth and integrity. Together with our partners, we are calling on all candidates to:
Campaign honestly; and
Commit to crucial reforms to stop the spread of disinformation in our democracy.
Disinformation is a complex issue, but we at the Human Rights Law Centre are committed to developing solutions that will work long-term, including legal reforms to prevent its spread and penalties for politicians who deliberately mislead the public.