Fake News and Elections in Southeast Asia

Asia Centre’s Dr. James Gomez will be speaking about Fake News & Elections in Southeast Asia” at College of Communication, National Chengchi University in Taipei on Tuesday, 6 November, at 12.30 pm. Learn more at our event page: http://bit.ly/2JlJYgc.

Abstract

Since 2017, individual governments in Southeast Asia have established task forces, convened select committee hearings and have proposed or passed legislation to combat “fake news”. In May 2018 ASEAN ministers responsible for information agreed in a joint statement to collaborate and exchange best practices to combat fake news and mitigate its effects. This development occurred on the back of increased internet penetration across Southeast Asia and the sharing of content over social media through mobile devices. What are the key issues around the emerging legislation in Southeast Asia in relations to fake news. How does the issue of fake news and election intersect? What is the impact of fake news on democracy, rule of law and freedom of expression in the region.