Social Media as a Tool for Building Information Resilience

Social Media as a Tool for Building Information Resilience explored the critical role of social media in promoting information resilience, fostering trust between media, government, and citizens, and countering disinformation. The project brought together media professionals and entrepreneurs from Turkmenistan to exchange best practices and strengthen their capacity to engage audiences effectively.

Over the course of three weeks, participants traveled to Washington, DC, Raleigh, NC, Manchester, NH, Boston, MA, and New York City. In Washington, key discussions centered on federalism, freedom of the press, and countering disinformation, with highlights including a session at the Voice of America and insights on AI in journalism. Raleigh’s program featured the DeWitt Wallace Center at Duke University and a discussion of youth perspectives on advocacy at NCSU. The group also enjoyed a visit to the NC Museum of Art and a local Christmas Parade. In New Hampshire, a workshop with Social HQ offered practical strategies for impactful social media use, and NH Businesses for Social Responsibility provided valuable insights into corporate and non-profit engagement. Boston's highlights included a visit to the Boston Neighborhood Network’s TV broadcasting studio and a memorable Thanksgiving meal and cultural exchange. In New York City, participants learned about independent filmmaking and digital entrepreneurship at DCTV.

Key outcomes included enhanced understanding of social media’s potential for ethical reporting, audience engagement, and disinformation countermeasures. Visitors emphasized that their IVLP experience showcased the importance of accessibility, inclusivity, and storytelling in media literacy. The program fostered meaningful connections among participants and their U.S. counterparts, empowering participants to amplify their messages and advocate for resilient information ecosystems within their home communities.