Rosmolodezh will train students to counter fake news

The Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh) will train students how to counter fake news and recognize information manipulation tools. Vedomosti drew attention to the relevant government procurement .

For three million rubles before the end of the year, it is planned to hold eight scientific and educational lectures and discussions “Russia and the World: Understanding the Future.” Students from the Central, Southern and Ural Federal Districts will take part in them. A survey will also be conducted on the same topic.

At the lectures, students will be explained what the digital reality and foreign policy of Russia are, what role young people play in the context of global challenges and changing technological eras. Students will be told how to counter fake news and information manipulation tools.

According to political scientist Alexei Makarkin, the holding of these lectures was a consequence of increased student activity, including protest. He expressed doubt that lectures on fake news would be effective and that students would refuse to participate in rallies after them.

In addition, Rosmolodezh will allocate 15 million rubles to hold “Dialogue on Equals” student discussion clubs in all regions of the country by the end of October. Discussions are devoted to patriotism, foreign economic development, globalization, leadership and public service. In Moscow, platforms for discussions will be Gorky Park, Zaryadye and other parks. It is expected that a total of 30 thousand students will attend lectures in Russia.

In May, the head of Roskomnadzor, Alexander Zharov, announced that the agency would maintain a register of sources and authors of fake news on its website. The list will include publications and bloggers whom the court found guilty of publishing fake news and insulting government authority.

On March 29, laws came into force in Russia punishing the publication of fake news, as well as insults and “blatant disrespect” for authorities on the Internet. If false information is detected, submitted under the guise of being reliable, Roskomnadzor will insist on deleting the information, and fines are also provided.