The growing use of Artificial Intelligence and its dual role in both spreading and combating disinformation was the central topic of discussions of the Council of Europe Open Forum session titled “AI and Disinformation: Countering the Threats to Democratic Dialogue.” Held on 25 June 2025 in the context of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2025, the session brought together media professionals, AI experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders for a solutions-oriented dialogue focused on tackling the urgent challenges of online information disorders.

In her opening remarks, Irena GUIDIKOVA, Head of the Democratic Institutions and Freedoms Department at the Council of Europe, reaffirmed the Organisation’s strong commitment to combating disinformation as a core democratic priority. She recalled the Guidance Note on countering the spread of online mis- and disinformation through fact-checking and platform design solutions in a human rights compliant manner, which advocates a human rights-compliant approach centred on three key pillars: fact-checking, platform design, and user empowerment. She also highlighted the recent adoption of the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law—the first internationally legally binding treaty on AI—as a milestone in promoting responsible and rights-based AI governance.

Panellists emphasised the dual nature of artificial intelligence as both a driver of new disinformation threats and a potential tool for democratic resilience. Presentations focused on how AI has transformed the disinformation landscape—moving from isolated, manual tactics to scalable, automated campaigns. Apart from the challenges, the discussions delved also into regulatory responses focusing on ethical self- and co-regulation, as well as educational responses calling for strong investment in digital and AI literacy.

As the information environment continues to evolve, the Council of Europe remains committed to supporting Member States in promoting resilience, transparency, and democratic integrity in the digital sphere.

Find out more:

Leaflet;

IGF 2025 official website