In a world where information moves at lightning speed and technology evolves even faster, fact-checking journalism finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. Recent events in Rio de Janeiro brought together nearly 400 fact-checkers from 80 countries at GlobalFact, the world’s largest fact-checking summit. Their mission? To chart a path forward in an era marked by weakening democracies, shifting funding landscapes, and the meteoric rise of artificial intelligence.
The AI Challenge: Navigating a New Frontier
Artificial intelligence has become both a tool and a test for fact-checkers. On one hand, AI models are being used to generate and spread misinformation at unprecedented scales. On the other, these same technologies are increasingly relied upon by the public as sources of information—sometimes with bizarre results. Consider the now-infamous case where an AI suggested using nontoxic glue to keep cheese from sliding off pizza! Such incidents highlight the urgent need for quality, fact-checked data to train these models and ensure they provide reliable answers.
Fact-checkers are uniquely positioned to supply this data, but the relationship is complex. Sometimes, their work is used to train AI without their knowledge or consent. Yet, as Clara Jiménez Cruz of Maldita points out, this data is valuable—and some organizations are now licensing it to AI companies, turning a challenge into an opportunity.
Rethinking Funding: From Big Tech to New Partnerships
The days of relying on social media giants for financial support are fading. As these platforms pull back, fact-checking organizations are reimagining their business models. Chris Morris of Full Fact advises, "No funding stream lasts forever. Always look for ways to reinvent yourself, both in the products you produce and the way you fund yourself."
This reinvention often means forging new partnerships—with nonprofits, academic institutions, and private companies. The key is to diversify revenue while fiercely protecting editorial independence and credibility. Fact-checkers are learning to leverage their strengths, whether that’s data licensing, educational outreach, or innovative content formats.
Innovation at the Core: Staying Nimble in a Changing World
If there’s one message that resonated throughout the summit, it’s that innovation is non-negotiable. The future of fact-checking depends on the ability to evolve methods while holding firm to core values of accuracy, transparency, and public service. Whether it’s experimenting with new storytelling formats, collaborating across borders, or harnessing AI for good, adaptability is the name of the game.
Actionable Takeaways for Fact-Checkers and Newsrooms
- Explore new business models: Don’t rely on a single funding source. Consider data licensing, memberships, or educational services.
- Form strategic partnerships: Collaborate with organizations that share your values, but always maintain editorial independence.
- Embrace technology: Use AI and other tools to enhance your work, but remain vigilant about their limitations and risks.
- Stay audience-focused: Engage the public with relatable stories and actionable information to rebuild trust and relevance.
In Summary
Fact-checking is more essential than ever, but the path forward requires creativity, collaboration, and a willingness to adapt. By embracing innovation and safeguarding their core mission, fact-checkers can continue to play a vital role in the global information ecosystem.
Key Points:
- AI presents both challenges and opportunities for fact-checkers.
- Diversifying funding and partnerships is crucial for sustainability.
- Editorial independence remains non-negotiable.
- Innovation and adaptability are essential for future success.
- Engaging the public is key to rebuilding trust in journalism.