Editorial | Getting out of hand
Summary
Disinformation and misinformation around the Gen Z protests in Nepal are escalating online, spreading false narratives and threatening social harmony. The government and social media users are urged to combat the spread through policy and media literacy.
Key Points
- A report by Cyabra claimed fake accounts influenced the Gen Z protests, sparking unverified speculations and disinformation.
- Photos of young men with ‘TOB’ T-shirts led to xenophobic and radicalized attacks against Nepalis of Tibetan origin.
- A hoax document purportedly signed by Gen Z leaders demanding ministerial posts caused public outrage before being debunked.
- The article calls for a national policy against misinformation and emphasizes improving media literacy to combat disinformation, especially ahead of elections.