Background

The increasing prevalence of misinformation, disinformation, malinformation and hate speech (MDMH) presents a significant challenge to UN peacekeeping operations. False allegations directed at UN peacekeepers encompass a range of accusations, from trafficking weapons to supporting armed groups and exploiting natural resources. MDMH, often amplified through digital and social media, not only obstructs the implementation of peacekeeping mandates but also places the safety and security of peacekeepers at risk. Acknowledging the severity of this threat, the UN Security Council has integrated language addressing MDMH into the mandates of peacekeeping operations. 

Aim

The main aim of this reinforcement training package (RTP) is to strengthen participants’ understanding of MDMH and the associated threats within UN peacekeeping operations.  This RTP offers troop and police-contributing countries a comprehensive training package that integrates conceptual, legal and operational elements to bolster the tactical readiness of units deploying to peacekeeping missions. It combines aspects of the DPO Policies on Information Integrity in Peacekeeping Settings, Strategic Communications and Peacekeeping-Intelligence. It applies them to existing analytical and planning tools used by uniformed personnel in peacekeeping missions. 

Target audience

The target audience of this package is military and police unit decision-makers, leaders, and staff at the tactical level. Also, this material is beneficial for the leadership and staff at the Mission/Force / Sector Headquarters levels and equivalent police command levels. The materials may lend themselves to a wide audience. Also, the audience can include personnel identified as decision-makers and staff officers who may be assigned to train, equip, employ, coordinate, or deploy the Unit. Member state trainers and course directors will benefit from these materials.

Structure of the training materials

Addressing Misinformation, Disinformation, Malinformation, and Hate Speech Threats

Module 1:            Conceptual Framework

Module 2:            Legal Framework

Module 3:            Operational Framework

Annex A:  Lessons- PowerPoint Slide Presentations

Annex B:  Tabletop Exercise (TTX); Scenario-based Exercise (SBE)

Annex C:  References

Table of Contents

Module 1 – Conceptual Framework

Lesson 1.1 – Introduction to MDMH

Lesson 1.2 – Impact of MDMH

Lesson 1.3 – MDMH techniques

Lesson 1.4 – Principles for addressing MDMH

Lesson 1.5 – UN peacekeeping strategic communications and public information

Lesson 1.6 – Integrated approaches to address MDMH

Module 2 – Legal Framework

Lesson 2.1 – Legal framework for peacekeeping operations: International law

Lesson 2.2 – Legal framework for peacekeeping operations: Mission specific

Module 3 – Operational Framework

Lesson 3.1 – An introduction to tactical planning considerations

Lesson 3.2 – Understanding the information environment - Interactive Activity Scenario

Lesson 3.3 – Monitoring, analysing and reporting MDMH

Lesson 3.4 – Risk management

Lesson 3.5 – Developing and sequencing tasks

Lesson 3.6 – Contributing communications content

Lesson 3.7 – Evaluating MDMH efforts

Full Packages