🎯Previous studies has consistently shown that interpersonal trust among Mongolians has declined over the years and remains relatively low compared to international standards. Trust in public institutions, in particular, is alarmingly weak. This has led to pressing questions: Why are Mongolians finding it increasingly difficult to trust one another? Why is polarization growing? What are the causes?

❗️One of the most powerful forces undermining social trust is the chaotic flow of information and the growing spread of fake news and disinformation.

🔴Fake information in society is generally divided into two types:

· Misinformation refers to inaccurate or misleading content shared unintentionally. While it can still cause harm, it is often correctable once identified.

· Disinformation is more dangerous. It is intentionally created and spread to confuse the public, manipulate opinions, distract attention, or generate profit. Studies have identified organized groups in Mongolia that deliberately distribute disinformation for specific goals (Y. Borchuluun & D. Iderjargal, 2019).

🚫In particular, disinformation weakens core democratic values such as freedom of expression, assembly, and human rights. It also deepens divisions within society. In recent years, the rise of AI-generated fake content has further blurred the line between truth and falsehood, increasing the risk that communities may fall victim to deception (Chinzorig, 2024).

❌In light of these risks, IRIM has launched a new initiative to better understand the current disinformation landscape in Mongolia and analyze how citizens engage with information. The ultimate goal is to develop a practical intervention model to strengthen media literacy and build public resilience.

As part of this initiative, IRIM will:

· Conduct a mapping study of the disinformation environment in Mongolia

· Carry out community behavior research

· Pilot experimental activities designed to boost information resilience and public capacity, based on research findings

📞This initiative is supported by EU–Team Europe Democracy and will run until July 2026. For more information, please contact the project coordinator at jargalmaa@irim.mn.