This new learning journey spotlights the distinctive roles that community foundations can play in strengthening democracy at the local level. From nurturing healthy information ecosystems to activating public spaces and bridging polarization, this three-part series explores how community foundations can step up to support and sustain the fabric of local democracy.
Ground truth
Community foundations on the local frontline of disinformation
23rd April, 11-12.30 CET
In today’s rapidly evolving information landscape, disinformation is no longer a marginal issue: it is a systemic challenge affecting democracy, social cohesion, and trust in institutions. According to the World Economic Forum, misinformation and disinformation are now considered the top global short-term risk, surpassing even climate and geopolitical threats.
More than 80% of experts worldwide say disinformation is already having a significant impact, contributing to declining trust, polarization, and social instability. Its consequences are tangible: from undermining democratic processes to fuelling social unrest, harshening hate towards marginalised communities and weakening communities’ ability to respond to crises.
In this context, community foundations can act as trusted conveners, supporting independent local media, promoting media literacy, and investing in initiatives that strengthen reliable information flows. By doing so, they help build resilient, informed communities and safeguard the conditions for inclusive local development.
This webinar brings together leading voices working at the intersection of philanthropy, journalism, and community resilience to explore how local actors can tackle disinformation effectively.
Featured speakers include:
- Jonathan Heawood, Public Interest News Foundation
- Roisin Wood, Community Foundation Northern Ireland
- Ulrike Rühlmann, Halle Community Foundation
Together, they will share practical insights and real-world examples of how community foundations are addressing disinformation, strengthening local media ecosystems, and fostering healthier, more cohesive communities.
