Society’s collective responsibility to combat fake news and misleading information goes hand in hand with the endeavor to value and support reputable media and high-quality journalism. This responsibility demands a multilateral approach that combines education, critical thinking, media accountability, technology, and civic engagement, through which it can effectively allow the establishment of a well-informed and aware society.

In this manner, society’s collective responsibility should be manifested in the collaborative efforts of educational institutions, media organizations, technological corporations, the government and citizens to develop policies, standards, and technologies to combat fake news, while respecting free speech and individual liberties. It is substantial in this regard for citizens to be proactive in evaluating sources critically, identifying bias, and discerning credible information from misinformation.

Collective responsibility is maintained by every individual’s responsibility to exercise caution when sharing information on social media with consideration to the potential consequences of spreading false information; and to take responsibility in mitigating the harmful effects of fake news and fostering an aware, democratic, and responsible society.