How We Work
- We check facts, not opinions
The claim is reviewed to establish whether it is fact-checkable and/or constitutes hate speech, as opposed to the expression of an opinion.
- We consult relevant sources and investigate all sides to the story
The sources consulted include first and foremost the drafter or quoted individual. Other sources consulted include public data and sources ranging from thematic experts to relevant authorities to ensure all sides of the story are investigated.
- We guarantee double verification
Every story is checked by two fact-checkers to mitigate individual bias and to ensure nothing was forgotten. The story is then reviewed and validated through the team lead.
- We publish our fact-checking report based on the available evidence at that point in time
The fact-checked content will be presented with the relevant rating alongside the narrative and references or proof that justifies it, based on the evidence existing at that point in time.
- We remain vigilant to new findings on fact-checked content
Based on new information or evidence that may appear on a fact-checked content, updates to the report may be conducted in line with the retraction policy.
Who We Are
Panos Institute Southern Africa (PSAf), through support from the United Nations Development Programme under the Democracy Strengthening Zambia (DSZ) programme, is implementing the iVerify fact checking initiative. This is a technology based, multi-stakeholder initiative for identifying and mitigating misinformation, disinformation and hate speech in the electoral process and beyond in Zambia.
The initiative is responding to the growing trend of people sharing and accessing unverified information over the years. In an increasingly confused information environment, mis/disinformation potentially raises alarm and triggers conflict; Promote corruption; stifle good journalism; cause inaction, non-responsiveness, apathy; threaten public safety; fracture community cohesion; reduce trust in institutions and the media; undermine public acceptance of science’s role in informing policy development and implementation; damage economic prosperity; and undermine the integrity of democratic processes.
When the information environment during elections is characterized by false information, the public at large are denied an opportunity to appreciate the electoral choices available and this can undermine the electoral process and environment. Disinformation, misinformation and mal-information can raise alarm and trigger conflict. Good journalism can be obstructed as it can be difficult to tell the difference between fake information and the truth.
As part of contribution to the broader multi-stakeholder response to misinformation, disinformation and hate, Panos Institute Southern Africa through support from UNDP is implementing the iVerify project, which is centred around the setting up and operationalisation of a technology platform for identifying and addressing mis/disinformation and hate speech.
What We Believe
The iVerify system is guided by the following principles:
Impartiality
Fact-checking by iVerify members is conducted with the utmost adherence to impartiality, delivering factual and objective information to the citizens.
Professionalism
Fact-checking processes will always be conducted through the application of a specific methodology used by all iVerify members.
Transparency
iVerify commits to disclose consulted sources and adheres to an honest retraction policy.
How We’re Supported
