UN highlights need for media literacy as AI reshapes how young people access information

The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, social media platforms and digital content has made it increasingly important for young people to assess the information they encounter online, the United Nations has highlighted during Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2026.

Observed annually from Oct 24 to 31, the initiative brings together educators, researchers, journalists, policymakers, young people and other stakeholders to promote the ability to access, evaluate and use information responsibly.

This year's theme, "We All Play a Part – Media and Information Literacy for the People", focused on the shared responsibility of individuals and institutions in building a more informed society. The United Nations has emphasised the importance of recognising trustworthy sources, identifying misinformation and engaging responsibly with digital platforms and artificial intelligence.

The observance comes as AI-generated text, images and videos become increasingly common in the online information environment, making it harder for users to distinguish between reliable information and misleading content.

UNESCO holds regional media literacy conference in New Delhi

India hosted one of UNESCO's regional events for Global Media and Information Literacy Week on Oct 26 and 27. The two-day South Asia conference, held in New Delhi, focused on integrating media and information literacy into formal education and preparing learners to navigate an information environment increasingly shaped by AI.

The event brought together educators, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders to discuss how schools and higher education institutions can equip students with the skills to evaluate information, understand digital platforms and participate responsibly online.

One of the key developments was the launch of UNESCO's new Media and Information Literacy and Artificial Intelligence module. The resource is intended to help learners and educators understand the relationship between AI and the information environment.

Discussions also covered information integrity, digital citizenship, the responsible use of AI and the need to incorporate media literacy into education and professional development.

What is media and information literacy?

Media and information literacy refers to the knowledge and skills required to search for, access, understand, critically evaluate, use and contribute to information and media content.

For students, these skills go beyond identifying fake news. They include checking the credibility of sources, distinguishing facts from opinions, understanding how online platforms influence the information they see and recognising the limitations of AI-generated responses.

For example, a student using an AI chatbot for an assignment needs to check whether the information provided is accurate, identify the sources behind important claims and avoid treating an AI-generated response as a verified academic reference.

Similarly, images and videos circulating on social media may be manipulated or generated using AI. Students need to understand how to question the origin and authenticity of such material before accepting or sharing it.

Media literacy also involves understanding online privacy, digital rights, responsible communication and the consequences of spreading unverified information.

Why schools and universities need to address AI literacy

As students increasingly use digital platforms for research, communication and learning, educators face the challenge of helping them distinguish useful information from misleading or fabricated material.

Teaching media literacy can help students develop critical thinking skills and make informed decisions about the content they encounter. It can also help them understand how algorithms, recommendation systems and AI tools shape their online experiences.

UNESCO's New Delhi conference placed particular emphasis on integrating these competencies into formal education rather than treating media literacy as a skill that students must acquire independently.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of involving teachers, families, digital platforms and policymakers in promoting responsible information practices.

Media literacy is a shared responsibility

The 2026 theme, "We All Play a Part", reflects UNESCO's position that building a reliable information environment cannot be left to technology companies or educational institutions alone.

Individuals also have a role in checking information before sharing it, questioning unfamiliar sources and understanding how their online activities contribute to the circulation of content.

Through Global Media and Information Literacy Week, UNESCO and its partners have sought to encourage collaboration between education systems, media organisations, governments and communities to strengthen these skills.

As AI continues to change how information is produced and consumed, the ability to evaluate what people read, watch and share is becoming an important part of digital education.