Understanding Information Disorder: Protecting Peace and Trust in South Sudan

Information disorder the spread of false, misleading, or harmful content has become one of the greatest threats to peace, security, and public trust in South Sudan. In a fragile context where social tensions and intercommunal conflicts persist, unchecked misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation can quickly inflame divisions, fuel violence, and undermine institutions. The rapid uptake of digital platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok has made it easier for harmful narratives to circulate widely, while low levels of media literacy and limited access to verified information make it harder for communities to separate fact from falsehood.

Addressing this challenge requires a collective response. Journalists and media professionals must practice conflict-sensitive reporting, policymakers need to strengthen and enforce digital legislation, platforms should improve local content moderation, and civil society must lead digital literacy and public awareness campaigns. Most importantly, citizens themselves play a critical role by pausing, verifying, and sharing responsibly. By working together across these fronts, South Sudan can transform digital spaces from drivers of division into instruments of peacebuilding and unity.

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Undersatnding Information Disorder.pdf

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