Media and Information Literacy: Reinforcing Human Rights, Countering Radicalization and Extremism (The MILID Yearbook, 2016)

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is a strong tool, cutting across educational, cultural and social contexts. It can help overcome disinformation, stereotypes and intolerance conveyed through some media and in online spaces. Here, stimulating critical empathy is one of the vital components and there are many stakeholders that have a role to play in this dimension of MIL.
This year’s edition is focused on a highly relevant theme of “Media and Information Literacy: Reinforcing Human Rights, Countering Radicalization and Extremism”. It is a relevant reference point to initiate discussion and offer perspectives to stakeholders seeking to apply MIL as a tool to counter violent extremism. There is evident need for evidence-based research, assessment and evaluation that can provide insight into the impact of media and information literacy on societies. UNESCO trusts that this publication will contribute to ongoing scholarship and debate on these key topics.
For media and other information providers to serve their purpose, we need critical minds in the public, which means to develop MIL programmes at the national, regional and international levels.