• Priority Area Multidisciplinary Investigations on Disinformation in Europe
• Year 2023, 2024
• Country Spain
• Project Status Ongoing

UDDOT will address the knowledge gaps relating to the nature and dynamics of disinformation narratives on the private messaging platform Telegram. Maldita.es and the University of Granada will investigate the dynamics of disinformation on Telegram’s Spanish channels analyzing how narratives emerge, spread, and evolve. Utilising AI modelling and machine learning techniques along with large language models, we will build upon previous research conducted by Maldita.es automatically identifying, tracking, and characterising narratives analysed in Telegram, expanding the scope of the analysis and results. Maldita.es will then develop a position paper based on research findings that addresses disinformation dynamics on private messaging platforms like Telegram. This paper will establish a clear stance on the issue, highlight key concerns, and launch a call to action with recommendations for stakeholders such as governments, platforms, and civil society organizations.

Paving the way for follow-on research, the research methodology will also be designed as an open and replicable resource that can be employed in other national contexts, promoting the broadening of the evidence-base. Plus, we will develop an automated disinformation glossary tool based on the research results that will enhance effective monitoring of disinformation narratives on Telegram. Finally, Maldita.es will mobilise its extensive communications channels and networks to promote the research results and position paper broadly among European citizens and key stakeholders, raising awareness about the nature and dangers of disinformation on Telegram, and empowering better informed policy responses.