Social Media Surpasses Television as Primary News Source Amid Rising Disinformation Concerns

Social media has emerged as the dominant source of news globally, with 56% of internet users across 16 countries frequently turning to platforms like Facebook and Twitter for information about current events, according to a comprehensive new survey. This marks a significant shift in media consumption patterns, as social media now outpaces television (44%) as people’s primary news source.

The survey, conducted ahead of numerous national elections scheduled for 2024, reveals stark differences in news consumption habits across demographic groups. In more developed countries, television remains the primary information source at 55%, compared to social media at 37%. However, in nations with medium to low Human Development Index (HDI) scores, social media dominates at 68% versus television at 37%. Age plays a predictable role, with those under 35 far more likely to use social media for news (67%) than those over 55 (31%).

Despite the shift toward digital platforms, traditional media maintains stronger trust levels. Television news enjoys 66% trust among respondents, followed by radio (63%) and print media (61%), while social media news trails at 50%. Notably, affluent countries reported lower trust across all information sources compared to developing nations.

The growing reliance on social media for news comes with significant concerns about content quality and reliability. An overwhelming 68% of internet users believe disinformation is most widespread on social media platforms, far exceeding concerns about messaging apps (38%) and media websites (20%). This sentiment cuts across all countries, age groups, and political affiliations.

The potential impact of false information has 87% of respondents worried about disinformation affecting upcoming elections in their countries, with 47% describing themselves as “very concerned.” This figure rises to 63% among those who identify as “very interested” in politics.

Hate speech presents another major challenge in the digital landscape. Two-thirds of internet users (67%) report encountering hate speech online, with the percentage rising to 74% among those under 35. Facebook was identified as the most problematic platform (58%), followed by TikTok (30%), X (formerly Twitter) at 18%, and Instagram (15%). According to respondents, LGBT+ people (33%) and ethnic or racial minorities are the primary targets of online hate speech, though victim patterns vary significantly by country.

Citizens overwhelmingly support intervention from both government regulators (88%) and the platforms themselves (90%) to address these problems. Support for regulatory action during election periods is particularly strong, with 89% endorsing government requirements for social media platforms to implement trust and safety measures to protect election integrity. This sentiment transcends national, demographic, and political divisions.

International organizations could also play a meaningful role, according to 75% of respondents who believe bodies like the UN and UNESCO should help combat disinformation. Support is especially robust in countries with medium to low HDI scores (83%).

Despite widespread awareness of these issues, the survey suggests users could take more active steps to combat disinformation. Only 48% report having flagged election-related disinformation content, with just 17% doing so “often.” Those under 35 (55%) and politically engaged individuals (55%) are more likely to report problematic content.

The survey, commissioned by UNESCO as part of its work to promote online freedom of expression, included 8,000 internet users across 16 countries where national elections are scheduled for 2024. UNESCO is currently developing guidelines for regulating digital platforms to safeguard freedom of expression and other human rights while addressing problematic content under international standards.