Currently we are living in an era of fake news and disinformation and their impact and reach is stronger that we ever believed will be. They have impact not only on electoral turnouts, but also on the future of our societies and it is possible, that this is only the beginning. Fake news and disinformation feed on the basic stereotypes, prejudices and values of the online users and it is hard to fight them, since they have ability to live its own lives without coordination and without receiver taking the notice about their true character. The Visegrad countries are not exception of this phenomenon and there is need for stronger cooperation in this area from all Visegrad countries to keep our political systems and societies properly functioning. However, fake news and disinformation are becoming a powerful weapon for extremists, foreign forces and third parties that are willing to influence the development of regions, countries or international organizations. These negative messages are also changing the behavior of the individuals in the societies, which are becoming more and more polarized. Societies are turning away from the mainstream politics and media and they are becoming less critical to the content that they are receiving.

The main aim of the project is to understand how social bubbles emerge in the online sphere, how they are able to influence users behavior and how they are able to grow. Our attention will be also focused on the difference between so-called filter bubbles and echo chambers that are starting to resonate in research of social impact and fake news? Our intention is to focus on these modern online worlds, which are highly perplexed also within the professional community. The project team lead by BPI will focus on potential effects of these bubbles, and will open space for political dialogue on how to combat social manipulation, and how to use them positively to promote integration and inclusiveness in society.