The caretaker Minister of Innovation and Growth, Irena Mladenova, asserted that effectively combating disinformation requires a highly coordinated effort among the technology sector, the scientific community, and state institutions. Speaking at the conclusion of DisInfoHack 2026 at the GATE Institute at Sofia University, the minister emphasized that these diverse stakeholders must connect to enable society to make informed decisions and reduce vulnerability to external influences. Mladenova highlighted that initiatives such as DisInfoHack hold value not only for their immediate outcomes but also for the foundational, long-term work they represent.
According to the minister, the structure of DisInfoHack, which involves mentorship and sustained idea development, is crucial for building sustainable skills in countering false narratives. She expressed hope that participants have enhanced their ability to accurately assess reliable information within the constant flow of digital content. A primary objective of the program, she noted, is the establishment of a robust network and the broader dissemination of acquired knowledge.
The minister urged participants to share their learning with peers and colleagues to maximize the project’s impact. DisInfoHack is integrated within a larger, three-year framework known as Countering Disinformation Environment (Ecosystem) in Bulgaria (CoDE). This overarching project utilizes a scientific methodology to study and analyze the information environment within Bulgaria.
Its goal is to synthesize effective best practices and tools for counteracting disinformation, thereby building national information resilience.
Topics: #minister #coordinated #fight
Coordination between the technology sector, scientific community, and state institutions will be crucial for effectively combating disinformation.
What specific mechanisms does the Minister propose for coordinating efforts between the technology sector, scientific community, and state institutions?