Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be both a boon and a bane for journalism. While it can streamline workflows and enhance productivity, it also has the potential to spread misinformation, sway public opinion, and undermine trust in the media.
Zain Verjee, a former CNN anchor, alongside intelligence expert Candyce Kelshall, has devised a comprehensive guide for newsrooms globally, focused on countering the spread of misinformation. Their manual, Election Interference and Information Integrity: A Newsroom Blueprint, offers media professionals practical strategies and AI tools to uphold the accuracy of their reporting, especially when covering elections.
TechCabal sat down with Zain Verjee to discuss the inspiration behind the guide, the growing threats of AI-fueled misinformation, and the ethical challenges of using AI in African newsrooms.
(Interview lightly edited for clarity and length)
TC: Can you share the story behind this handbook?
The rise of misinformation and disinformation is one of the world’s biggest threats today. In an age where global divisions are evident—like in the US elections—and with AI technology making it easier to fabricate content, this issue has become even more pressing. Additionally, journalists are grappling with an all-time low in public trust. As a former journalist, I wanted to address how newsrooms can handle these challenges and maintain audience confidence while adapting to the technological evolution surrounding us.
There was no clear guide available for journalists on how to navigate the complexities of AI in the newsroom. I wanted to create a resource that could help journalists assess information critically, similar to intelligence agencies, where I’ve gained experience. This led to the creation of the handbook, combining my experience, my interest in AI, and the difficult times for journalists, particularly those reporting on elections.
TC: Was this guide designed with any specific region in mind? Or is it more globally applicable?
The principles outlined in the handbook are universal. Fact-checking, verifying sources, and determining the authenticity of images, videos, and audio are concerns that transcend geographical boundaries. The book encourages treating news as a product that requires verification before being published, a process that can enhance the integrity of newsrooms everywhere.
While the handbook has global relevance, as a Kenyan journalist, I recognize the unique challenges faced by African newsrooms. For example, some aspects of the guide may be expanded upon to address particular issues in Africa, but overall, it provides valuable insights for handling misinformation, disinformation, and information integrity on a global scale.
TC: What key elements of this guide are particularly relevant to African newsrooms?
Misinformation and disinformation remain major issues. Understanding the distinction between the two is crucial. Misinformation often stems from a lack of malicious intent but can still have harmful effects. Disinformation, on the other hand, is intentionally created to deceive, often for political or destabilizing purposes.
The guide helps journalists differentiate between the two, which is vital, especially in environments where misinformation spreads rapidly. In Africa, where mobile-first access is predominant, verification tools should be mobile-friendly. Newsrooms need solutions that work on mobile devices, ensuring accessibility even with low bandwidth. Additionally, African newsrooms should collaborate more, especially during election periods, by creating shared fact-checking databases and leveraging local knowledge to improve verification processes.
TC: How should African newsrooms approach AI, considering the general skepticism around it?
I’m optimistic about AI. It’s here to stay and will only improve over time. Ignoring AI risks obsolescence, both for journalists and their craft. AI tools can help journalists work more efficiently, giving them more time to engage with sources and refine their stories. I believe journalists who embrace AI will have a competitive edge.
However, it’s crucial that AI tools are tailored to local contexts. Many AI solutions are built on Western data, which may not accurately represent African cultural nuances. African newsrooms should develop their own AI models and datasets, ensuring the technology serves their unique needs.
Despite AI’s potential, human judgment remains irreplaceable. Journalists must continue to apply critical thinking and creativity in their work, using AI as an assistant, not a replacement.
TC: What ethical considerations should African newsrooms take into account when using AI?
AI tools are powerful but must be used responsibly. When handling sensitive data, newsrooms need to implement guidelines that protect privacy and respect community values. Journalists must also be transparent about their use of AI, explaining to audiences when AI has been employed in the creation or verification of content.
Another important consideration is data sovereignty. African newsrooms must be mindful of where their data is stored, as many AI tools store data on servers outside the continent. Journalists should inquire about the ownership of these tools and how their data will be used.
TC: Which sections of the handbook should African journalists prioritize?
I believe the most crucial aspect is critical thinking. This skill helps journalists evaluate sources more carefully, ensuring they publish only verified, trustworthy content. The handbook encourages journalists to ask the right questions: Who created the information? What’s the intention behind it? When and why was it shared? This practice helps maintain journalistic integrity and is essential for navigating today’s media landscape.
Ultimately, the handbook is a resource for journalists to evolve in the age of AI while retaining their core human qualities—critical thinking, empathy, and judgment. These traits ensure that journalists remain the final gatekeepers of truth, even in a rapidly changing technological environment.