Development of media education as a prerequisite for combating fake news and the basics of forming a democratic society

Abstract

This article analyzes the problem of the spread of fake news and the need to improve the media literacy of the population. Various strategies are analyzed, such as: increasing media literacy, improving fact-checking methods, and holding social media platforms accountable for their role in spreading fake news. The role of American and European universities and research institutions that offer media education programs for citizens of their countries is shown. The importance of fighting fake news in all European countries is emphasized. The ways of solving this problem in Ukraine during the period of hostilities are considered. Recommendations are offered for further research on this issue and increasing media literacy of the population.