Alternative Futures: Call for Application

A 2-day workshop for journalists, media professionals, and digital advocates to tackle the challenges of digital disinformation and digital literacy in Bangladesh.

Hosted by the Goethe-Institut Bangladesh in partnership with Correctiv and Design Beku

What to Expect:

In an era where disinformation is increasingly shaping public discourse, this workshop brings together experts and practitioners to discuss and develop strategies for tackling misinformation and enhancing fact-checking practices in Bangladesh. Over two days, we will dive deep into the digital landscape of Bangladesh, analyzing the intersection of free speech, misinformation, and the role of local fact-checking ecosystems.

Through expert-led sessions, practical exercises, and community-driven approaches, participants will gain insights into how disinformation spreads, its impact on society, and actionable ways to counter it.

Key Themes & Sessions:

• Day 1: Understanding disinformation in Bangladesh, exploring the role of fact-checking in media, and developing community-based strategies to counter misinformation.

• Day 2: Building local fact-checking infrastructures, examining the societal impact of disinformation, and discussing the future of digital literacy and media accountability.

Participants will engage in hands-on fact-checking exercises, develop community-driven initiatives for digital literacy, and collaborate on digital strategies for local media ecosystems.

What Will You Gain:

• Collaborate with experts from the fields of media, fact-checking, and digital literacy, both locally and internationally.

• Enhance your skills in identifying and combating disinformation through practical exercises and simulations.

• Network with peers and organizations working on digital rights, media accountability, and fact-checking.

• Develop action-oriented initiatives to promote digital literacy and responsible media consumption in Bangladesh.

Who Should Apply:

Are you:

• A journalist, media professional, or researcher working on disinformation, media literacy, or digital rights in Bangladesh?

• A civil society advocate interested in promoting responsible digital practices and combating misinformation?

• A student or activist working on projects related to digital awareness and media accountability?

• A tech professional or policy maker with an interest in strengthening local fact-checking ecosystems and digital literacy in Bangladesh?

This workshop is ideal for individuals working within or interested in the media, digital rights, civil society, and policy sectors, as well as those with a passion for addressing the growing threat of disinformation.

How to Apply:

Eligibility: This workshop is open to journalists, media practitioners, researchers, students, and activists committed to addressing the challenges of disinformation and digital literacy in Bangladesh.

Why You Should Apply:

• Gain expertise from industry leaders, journalists, and experts in digital literacy and fact-checking.

• Practical knowledge that you can immediately apply in your work or community.

• Opportunities for long-term collaboration with like-minded professionals and organizations.

• Support for actionable digital initiatives to tackle disinformation in Bangladesh.

About the project:

Alternative Futures is a regional initiative by the Goethe-Institut, bringing together digital civil society organizations across South Asia and Germany. With partners in Bangladesh, Kolkata, and Delhi, the project focuses on leveraging digital media to promote democratic practices and structures. Key themes include transparency, journalism, and inclusion. The initiative seeks to foster knowledge exchange, strengthen networks, and support the development of collaborative strategies and projects.