As Taiwan faces a surge of disinformation attributed to China, local fact-checking organisations and AI technologies play a crucial role in countering false narratives. This article explores the challenges posed by foreign disinformation, particularly during election periods, and the efforts to combat it in Taiwan.
Taiwan Confronts Growing Disinformation Threat from China
Taiwan is increasingly targeted by disinformation, primarily attributed to China, according to a University of Gothenburg study. The island nation is subject to more foreign disinformation than any other democracy, notably intensifying during election periods.
In 2015, Taiwanese engineer Charles Yeh initiated MyGoPen, a fact-checking website, in response to misleading information his family encountered. MyGoPen now has over 400,000 subscribers and addressed 1.3 million fact-check requests in 2023, covering various false claims.
Other fact-checking entities in Taiwan, such as Taiwan FactCheck Center, Cofacts, and DoubleThink Lab, have emerged but continue to face escalating disinformation challenges. DoubleThink Lab tracks China’s influence in multiple countries, ranking Taiwan highest in the degree of Chinese influence on its society and media.
A recent AI disinformation report by the Thomson Foundation highlights the increasing use of AI in spreading false information, especially during elections. The changing tactics aim to create misleading narratives harder to refute, emphasizing the need for a diverse media environment and public awareness.
While AI presents challenges, it also aids fact-checkers like MyGoPen in streamlining processes. However, experts stress the importance of public education on evolving disinformation tactics.
For further context, China’s foreign affairs ministry has rejected accusations from the US of expanding disinformation efforts, labeling such claims as disinformation themselves.
This article provides an overview of Taiwan’s experience dealing with foreign disinformation, predominantly spurred by China, and the evolving tactics used, including AI. It highlights the efforts of local fact-checking organizations and the broader geopolitical dynamics at play.
