How can civil society organizations conduct public education and awareness campaigns to combat disinformation and misinformation, which have the potential to erode public trust in their work? How can they measure the effectiveness of these initiatives? How can websites serve as informative platforms to showcase the impact, narratives, and collaborations of civil society organizations? Lastly, what strategies should we use to harness emerging technologies in sustainable and innovative ways?  

These were the topics tackled during the recent Forus ComsForUs working group meeting workshop on September 20. At 'TechTalks,' we delved into how civil society can harness technology to amplify its impact. 

Mika Valitalo, from Fingo, Finland, concentrates on digital development, innovation and corporate partnerships. He delved into emerging technologies and shared insights into Fingo’s Powerbank project.  

"The Powerbank project has been a part of Fingo's comprehensive programming since 2020. It encompasses three key areas: enhancing CSO innovation and experimentation skills, providing information and training on the risks and opportunities of digitalization – with a focus on addressing inequality, disability inclusion, and gender equality in technology use – and fostering collaboration with the private sector," explained Mika. He emphasized the importance of keeping their members updated and informed about the benefits of technology: "Our members can freely borrow the tools we provide for experimentation before making any purchases. Between 2020 and 2022, we conducted 32 technology experiment projects involving around 50 implementing partners. We've completed three rounds, and a fourth is likely to commence next year."  

The Fingo Powerbank project contains a large pool of valuable information for NGOs about innovations, technological solutions and private sector collaboration as well as a selection of tried and tested technology solutions which have been found useful for development NGOs. From a Chatbot to Support Victims of Domestic Violence to Community Media for Development, one can also find several experiments that have been conducted by NGOs during the past few years as a part of Fingo Powerbank in Eastern African countries. 

Chris Katsaura, Communications Officer from the Zimbabwe NGO platform NANGO, shed light on the critical topic of combating misinformation and disinformation. Misinformation and disinformation can significantly harm civil society organizations (CSOs) in several ways. They erode public trust, damage reputations, hinder effectiveness, and divert resources. When CSOs are targeted by false information campaigns, public support and advocacy efforts are compromised. False accusations or misrepresentations in the media can harm their standing. Misinformation affects the ability to achieve mission goals by spreading misconceptions. Responding to false claims diverts time and resources, and sometimes it incites threats and harassment. Reduced funding opportunities and obstruction of advocacy also result from successful misinformation campaigns.  

"Misinformation and disinformation pose an escalating threat to CSOs and their global efforts. When CSOs become targets of disinformation, it can erode public trust in their work, tarnish their reputation, and impede their mission achievement," he elaborated. Chris shared NANGO's proactive approach to safeguarding their members from these challenges: this includes media literacy efforts, digital skills, crisis communication plans, and strategic responses and monitoring of social media to protect civil society across the country – especially in election times.  

Adrien Radovic, representing What the Web, a website hosting platform, focused on web design for civil society during his presentation. "When creating a website, civil society organisations need to carefully consider its sustainability. A website enhances visibility, aids in fundraising, and fosters community-building around the organization," he advised. 

The workshop brought together 14 Forus member organizations, alongside an engaged external audience.