What goes on in the digital sphere does not merely interact with reality—it fashions reality. However, this conceptual framework is not new. Since well before the birth of mass media technologies, the world has been flooded with information. In fact, the terms disinformation and misinformation date back to the late 19th century, as early as the advent of radio, yet they have only recently graduated to mainstream lexicon as technology has accelerated, bringing the information battlefront to the palm of one's hand. ​

 

However, leadership in this digital age is strongly lacking. To even begin addressing the evident and growing global problem of “information disorder," ironically requires further information: the revisiting of history and context, an understanding of regional disparities and conflicts, and an investigation of state methodologies in dealing with media and info wars. Nations can learn from each other in developing strategic solutions and policies to promote a safer and healthier digital environment that in turn shapes the direction of history. 

 

Thus, in an effort to bring attention to the need for both guidance and a convergence of policy with information, leaders in media, technology, academia, and political, civil, and military service will convene to discuss the history of mass media and propaganda, the rise of fake news and mis/disinformation, the development of social media and cyber warfare, and the development of state media strategy from the 90s and predictions for the future of the media landscape. Panels will feature the work of past and present media organizations and lay bare the many information challenges, particularly in countries like China, Russia, and Afghanistan as well as in the Middle East and Latin America regions. Furthermore, UT Austin’s Global Disinformation Lab will be a featured research partner, presenting recent findings, policy recommendations, and solutions for governments struggling to navigate the “post-truth” world.