OSCE Academy Disinformation and Cybersecurity Training

The four-day Disinformation and Cybersecurity Training, hosted by the OSCE Academy, brought together a diverse group of professionals from across Central Asia to address the pressing challenges of disinformation and cybersecurity. This intensive program blended expert-led discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities to explore the profound impact of disinformation on public perception, conflict dynamics, and democratic processes. It was facilitated by the CRISP-trainer Kateryna Pavlova and Rashid Gabdulhakov, an expert from Uzbekistan, assistant professor at the Research Centre for Media and Journalism Studies at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.

Participants gained valuable insights into disinformation’s role in fuelling conflicts and learned how to counter it through media literacy and narrative transformation techniques. A key highlight was the simulation game, which immersed participants in a realistic digital crisis scenario. This experience enabled them to strategize responses to external cyber threats targeting electoral processes while testing their newfound skills in a collaborative and high-stakes environment.

The program concluded with reflections on ethical cybersecurity practices and practical approaches to managing digital risks at both state and personal levels. By fostering collaboration and equipping participants with essential tools, the training aimed to build resilience against disinformation and digital threats in the region.

This format is adaptable to different target groups and can be adjusted to different durations. 

Project Goals

To equip participants with practical tools and knowledge to identify, counter, and mitigate disinformation while enhancing cybersecurity awareness and practices, ultimately contributing to more secure and informed societies.

Target Group(s)

Journalists, civil society leaders, media professionals, academics, and public officials from Central Asia, all of whom play roles in countering disinformation and enhancing digital security in their fields.

Planned Outcomes/Achievements 

• Increasing understanding of disinformation dynamics and their impact on public perception and conflicts.
• Enhancing media literacy and the ability to apply narrative-shifting strategies.
• Practical experience in handling cyber threats through a simulation game focused on electoral security.
• Strengthening  professional networks for collaboration on addressing digital threats.
• Empowering participants to apply their learning to improve cybersecurity and disinformation countermeasures in their daily work.