AI-driven initiative by University of Évora aims at combating misinformation
**Article Title: EU-Funded Project HYBRIDS Tackles Conspiracy Theories and Disinformation**
In the digital age, where information spreads at an unprecedented pace, the EU and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) have launched a significant project aimed at combating false narratives that undermine democratic societies. Known as HYBRIDS, this project is a collaborative effort involving 14 partner institutions from six countries: Portugal, Italy, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain.
The project, coordinated by the University of Santiago de Compostela, focuses on creating hybrid intelligence systems that combine human reasoning with automatic learning. One of the key researchers within the HYBRIDS project, Erik Marino, is a doctoral student in History at the University of Santiago de Compostela. Marino's research specifically focuses on "population replacement conspiracy theories," a phenomenon he claims has gained traction across Europe.
Marino, an advocate for the use of AI technology, believes that these systems are remarkable in handling human language and are continually improving. The use of AI methods, he explains, enables deeper analyses and larger data corpora, making it possible to detect, study, and compare the evolution of conspiracy theories over the last 30-35 years in various contexts.
The goal of the HYBRIDS project is to develop tools for analyzing discourses and identifying abuses and disinformation in language. These tools will not only help in debunking false narratives but also contribute to the protection of democracies. Marino warns that the spread of conspiracy theories can have harmful consequences and potentially lead to dramatic results.
The HYBRIDS project, with a budget of 2,895,552 euros, is an urgent response to the growing proliferation of disinformation, hate speech, and fake news online. It aligns with the EU's broader strategy to combat disinformation and hybrid threats, particularly those originating from Russia and other adversaries.
While the search results did not provide specific information about the HYBRIDS project, it appears to be part of a larger effort within the EU to address these challenges. Other initiatives include combating disinformation and hybrid threats, utilising a hybrid toolbox to prevent, deter, and respond to hybrid threats, and research on hybrid threats, including disinformation.
In summary, the HYBRIDS project is a significant step towards addressing the issue of disinformation and conspiracy theories in Europe. By leveraging AI technology, the project aims to develop tools that will help protect democracies and promote a more informed public discourse.
[1] European Commission. (2020). Digital Services Act proposal. Retrieved from
Technology and artificial-intelligence play crucial roles in the EU-funded project HYBRIDS, aimed at combating disinformation and conspiracy theories. This project, led by the University of Santiago de Compostela, employs hybrid intelligence systems that blend human reasoning with automatic learning, utilizing AI technology to analyze language, debunk false narratives, and protect democracies.
