Home / Health / WHO Urged to Fight Climate Fake News Threat
WHO Urged to Fight Climate Fake News Threat
27 Oct
Summary
- WHO urged to recognize climate disinformation as a public health threat.
- Member states must integrate disinformation response into climate policies.
- Report links climate lies to undermining health guidance and policies.
World Health Organization member states are being urged to formally recognize climate disinformation as a significant public health threat, according to health and civil society organizations. They are calling on 194 countries to make information integrity a fundamental aspect of climate and health policy, preparedness, and response strategies.
A recent report, 'Protecting Health in the Age of Climate Disinformation', marks the first time the global health community has comprehensively addressed the harmful impacts of climate disinformation on human health worldwide. The report argues that a healthier information environment is essential for climate justice, public health, and the right to a healthy future.
The report details how climate disinformation, defined as the intentional spread of false or misleading information about climate change and action, can actively obstruct life-saving support during disasters. It provides examples, such as false claims after the 2023 Maui wildfires that deterred survivors from seeking aid. Similarly, misleading narratives surrounding clean air policies in Europe have amplified concerns and politicized public health interventions.
Experts emphasize that governments must embed tools for responding to mis- and disinformation into their planning for various climate-related scenarios. This includes establishing robust safeguards against conflicts of interest, particularly concerning fossil fuel greenwashing, and addressing those who weaponize climate disinformation.
