Asian Fact-Checkers Network Conference 2026 Examines Challenges to Information Integrity

Fact-checkers, researchers and practitioners from across Asia gathered at the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information (WKWSCI) on 24 August for the Asian Fact-Checkers Network (AFCN) Conference 2026.

Under the theme “Defending Truth. Designing Resilience.”, the conference provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and discuss the challenges of tackling misinformation and disinformation in an increasingly complex information environment. 

Professor Masato Kajimoto from The University of Hong Kong delivered the keynote address, which touched on student-led fact-checking and the role young people can play in strengthening information integrity. The conference also featured discussions on coordinated influence campaigns, declining trust in media and ways to engage younger audiences and build their ability to assess the information they encounter. 

AI was another key topic of discussion. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly convincing, speakers discussed how fact-checkers may need more time and effort to verify and debunk false information. At the same time, genuine content can also be questioned as AI-generated, making it increasingly challenging to establish what is real. 

The programme continued on 25 August with a closed-door workshop by the Centre for Advanced Technologies in Online Safety (CATOS), exploring tools and approaches for fact-checking, deepfake detection and content provenance. Participants discussed how these technologies can support the verification of digital content and strengthen digital trust as the information landscape continues to evolve. 

Co-organised by Black Dot Research and NTU’s Centre for Information Integrity and the Internet (IN-cube), the two-day programme provided an opportunity for the regional fact-checking community to exchange experiences, ideas and practices in tackling misinformation and disinformation.