Koudougou: The High Council for Communication (CSC), in collaboration with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DECAF), has inaugurated a three-day training workshop in Koudougou, aimed at addressing the challenges posed by digital platforms in the fight against disinformation and hate speech. The event convenes regional delegates, provincial representatives, influencers, bloggers, as well as religious and traditional leaders.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the president of the CSC, Windingoudi Louis Modeste Ouedraogo, highlighted that since November 2023, the CSC has been empowered to regulate not only traditional media but also digital platforms including Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and X, specifically those platforms with content producers who have at least 5,000 subscribers. He emphasized the need for capacity building among CSC agents, bloggers, web activists, online media, and customary and religious leaders to counteract the proliferation of disinformation campaigns and the growing sophistication of manipulation techniques.

The president specified that the training will cover several key areas, including the regulation of social networks, combatting disinformation and hate speech, fact-checking techniques, and addressing the opportunities and challenges of digital technology. The modules will also delve into cybercrime and tools for monitoring and analyzing online discourse. He commended the strategic partnership with DECAF and expressed gratitude to the experts participating in the workshop. He urged attendees to contribute to promoting peace and "cleaning up the digital space."

DECAF's national advisor, Sadou Sidibe, emphasized that the challenges of information dissemination now extend to social networks and virtual spaces, where the dynamics of social cohesion are subtly influenced. He noted the conclusion of the Civic Space project, funded by the Kingdom of Belgium and running from 2023 to 2025, which is aligned with the Action Plan for Stabilization and Development's Pillar 4, focusing on social cohesion and national reconciliation. Mr. Sidibe underscored DECAF's role as a global leader in security sector governance, operating in over 70 countries, and reiterated its commitment to supporting the CSC and national stakeholders in sustainably tackling digital challenges.

The workshop will employ a participatory approach, featuring communications, practical exercises, and experience sharing. Participants will engage in developing monitoring tools, identifying gaps, strategizing to dismantle manipulative content, and establishing collaborative mechanisms among stakeholders.