Social media disinformation has emerged as a significant threat to nations worldwide, and Pakistan is no exception. With the widespread use of social media platforms and a growing number of active users, the dissemination of false information has reached alarming levels. Social media platforms jointly reported 4.72 billion users worldwide, and on average 72.9 million Pakistanis remained active on social media in 2022, with an annual growth of 4.3%. This makes Pakistan extremely vulnerable to social media disinformation.

Disinformation, unlike misinformation, involves the deliberate spread of false information or propaganda. Its purpose is to manipulate public opinion, gain control over the masses, or foster societal polarisation. Divergent flows of intended information that act as adversaries to the contradictory perspectives form divisions within the populace, and initiates a battle of information; a battle that is only won by the most persistent and the most vigorous.

Social Media has become the breeding ground for political manipulation and the dissemination of false narratives in Pakistan. This trend persisted during elections and government transitions, with incorrect narratives and fabricated stories targeting and degrading specific political figures and parties. Moreover, social media is exploited to incite sectarian and religious conflicts, exacerbating tensions and deepening divisions among different ideological groups. The example of several of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protests illustrate how provocative disinformation can ignite sectarian hatred and contribute to social unrest.

Social media has also been used by external hostile forces to create panic and chaos within the nation by disseminating false statistics and exaggeration of security threats. Such campaigns halt the inflow of foreign direct investment. For example, during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023 edition, false information regarding terrorist activities was spread compelling cricketers to think about their security. Pakistan is further challenged by external actors vigorously circulating disinformation and falsehood within the nation to weaken its morale and instill skepticism into the minds of the masses. Such actors have tried to exert influence on Pakistan’s geopolitical landscape. For instance, the long-standing Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India is often exploited by external actors, trying to manipulate public opinion, create divisions, and influence narratives to the Kashmir issue. In another instance, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has also been targeted by social media campaigns to discredit the project.

To effectively tackle social media disinformation in Pakistan, a multifaceted approach that involves government officials, social media activists, and the civil society is necessary. Building digital literacy among the population is crucial to develop critical thinking skills and enable individuals to recognize misinformation and evaluate credible sources. Educational programs, curriculum integration, and awareness campaigns need to be conducted to enhance digital literacy and promote responsible online behaviour.

Fact-checking and verification organizations play a vital role in debunking false information. Collaborating with social media platforms, these organizations can flag and verify disinformation, reducing its impact. Similarly, encouraging individuals to fact-check, verify sources, and adopt responsible online behaviour is crucial for combating disinformation. Moreover, transparency in algorithms and content moderation policies of social media platforms is essential. It helps users understand how content is prioritized and recommended, reducing the amplification of false information. Effective content moderation policies, coupled with government regulations, hold social media platforms accountable for the spread of disinformation, fostering a healthier and disinformation-free society.

The pervasive nature of social media platforms poses significant challenges for Pakistan in combating the spread of disinformation. The rapid dissemination of false narratives and propaganda can have dire consequences for national unity, security, and public perception. By adopting comprehensive strategies that emphasize digital literacy, fact-checking initiatives, transparency in algorithms, and responsible user behavior, Pakistan can effectively address social media disinformation. Building a resilient information ecosystem requires collective efforts from individuals, government bodies, social media platforms, and civil society organizations to safeguard the nation’s unity and well-being. The safer the country from misleading information, the more integral the nation.