By Silvia Mukwindidza
The 2023 Zimbabwean elections are fast approaching, and there is growing concern about the risks posed by the online information space.
A recent report by the International Republican Institute (IRI) titled Zimbabwe 2023 Elections: A Risk Assessment of the Online Information Space has identified a number of key risks, including the spread of disinformation and misinformation, the use of social media to manipulate public opinion, the hacking of election-related websites and databases, and the use of technology to suppress voter turnout.
The spread of disinformation and misinformation is a major problem in Zimbabwe. In the run-up to the 2018 elections, there was a significant increase in the spread of false and misleading information on social media. This information often targeted opposition candidates and was designed to sow confusion and distrust among voters.
Social media is also being used to manipulate public opinion in Zimbabwe. For example, there have been reports of state-sponsored trolls using social media to spread pro-government propaganda and attack opposition candidates.
Election-related websites and databases have been hacked in the past. This could pose a serious threat to the integrity of the 2023 elections. If hackers were able to gain access to voter registration data, they could use it to suppress voter turnout or to target specific voters with disinformation.
Technology could further be used to suppress voter turnout in Zimbabwe. For example, there have been reports of the government using its control of mobile n<span;>etworks to block access to social media and messaging apps on election day. This could make it difficult for voters to get information about the elections or to communicate with each other.
The IRI report concludes by warning that the online information space is a “major risk factor” to the integrity of the 2023 Zimbabwean elections. The absence of accurate information creates an environment where false narratives and propaganda can easily spread, shaping public opinion and discourse. It calls on all stakeholders to take steps to mitigate these risks and ensure that the elections are free, fair, and credible.
Mitigating the Risks
There are a number of steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks posed by the online information space to the integrity of the 2023 Zimbabwean elections such as:
• Increasing public awareness of the risks of disinformation and misinformation.
• Strengthening the capacity of election officials to respond to online threats.
• Enacting legislation to protect election-related data.
• Promoting the use of technology to enhance the transparency and integrity of the electoral process.
Media literacy trainings for voters, journalists, and election officials.
The use of Al to promote inclusion in the electoral process. It is important to note that these are just some of the steps that can be taken. The specific measures that are most appropriate will vary depending on the specific circumstances of the Zimbabwean elections.
The IRI report is a sobering wake-up call about the risks posed by the online information space to the integrity of the 2023 Zimbabwean elections. The report warns that disinformation, misinformation, and social media manipulation could be used to sway public opinion and suppress voter turnout. The IRI report also highlights the importance of protecting digital rights in order to ensure that all Zimbabweans can participate freely and safely in the electoral process. It’s clear that all stakeholders must take steps to mitigate these risks, or the future of Zimbabwe could be at stake.
Call to Action
What can you do to help the situation?
• Learn about the risks of disinformation and misinformation.
• Be critical of the information you see online. Share accurate and verified information with others.
Report disinformation and misinformation to the authorities.
Go the extra mile to be media literate
• Don’t take part in online or offline violence
⚫ By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that the 2023 Zimbabwean elections are free, fair, and credible.
#onlineinformation #digitalrights #digitalinclusion #internetgornance
#informationtechnology #internetfreedom ##disinformation #internetactivist
#digitalrightsadvovate #zimbabweelections #Al #digitaleconomy
