MDM and migration: a risky journey
In an age where we are exposed to an overwhelming volume of information daily, developing critical thinking skills has become an essential asset. The ability to evaluate news, discern facts from fiction, and make informed decisions is more crucial than ever—particularly in contexts as sensitive and impactful as migration.
Inaccurate or misleading information can have significant consequences for migrants. From across the information ecosystem, few areas are as deeply affected by mis-, dis-, and Mal-information (collectively known as MDM) as migration. The consequences can be profound, not only for individuals but also for communities and governance systems.
Misinformation refers to false information that is not intended to cause harm; it’s an innocent rumor that’s like folk myths or urban legends. Unfounded bits of information without a clear origin, circulating among people and moving swiftly. In this category fall the stories of an easy life for illegal migrants in Europe. These narratives, while not malicious, can lead to misguided expectations.
Disinformation, by contrast, is deliberately designed to deceive. In the migration sphere, this may come from traffickers or those seeking to undermine official programmes, including voluntary return and reintegration initiatives. Such narratives may attempt to discredit legitimate institutions to maintain profit-driven systems of exploitation.
Malinformation involves accurate information that is distorted or selectively presented to create misleading impressions. For example, highlighting isolated success stories of irregular migration without addressing associated risks may downplay the dangers involved, contributing to unsafe decisions.
As a communication adviser at Stalwart & Associates, my role is to support international organisations, governments, and civil society actors in designing communication strategies that responsibly address each facet of MDM. This means creating campaigns that not only inform but do so in a balanced and context-sensitive manner, helping audiences make reasoned, informed choices.
One vital, though sometimes under-emphasised, element in this process is a culture of transparency. Clear and accurate information-sharing is indispensable to any effort that seeks to protect migrants and support responsible migration governance.
During a recent field engagement, I encountered differing views on whether and how to communicate the risks of irregular migration. Some stakeholders expressed caution, considering such messaging potentially outside their mandates. This divergence underscores a broader, ongoing conversation: how can institutions best balance operational mandates, ethical responsibilities, and individuals’ right to accurate information?
At Stalwart and Associates International, we assess the needs without prejudice, craft the communication strategy without hidden agenda, explain the facts without reservation, and let stakeholders take informed decisions for the good of their communities, then “build together” the campaign, execute it, measure the impact, suggest any corrective measures and evaluate the success.
This principle holds true whether the focus is on border management, institutional reform, or migration-related awareness campaigns. In each case, we strive to ensure that communication is not only effective but anchored in shared values of accountability, transparency, and respect for the people we serve.
The presence of MDM in migration-related communication is a challenge, but not an insurmountable one. With thoughtful planning, critical reflection, and a commitment to responsible information-sharing, we can build communication ecosystems that empower rather than endanger.
I remain committed to this vision—and proud to contribute to it as part of the team at Stalwart & Associates.