An analysis of the EDMO fact-checking network. Organizations that contributed to this analysis: Pagella Politica/Facta news; Newtral; Lakmusz; Verifica RTVE; AFP; Correctiv; Demagog; DW; EFE Verifica; Ellinika Hoaxes; Knack; Maldita; TjekDet; VRTNWS.
Mis- and disinformation targeting the LGBTQ+ community is one of the most present and consistent in the European Union, as highlighted monthly by Edmo’s briefs. It seems that false news on this topic is becoming more and more insidious, with unfounded claims that often incite hatred against minorities, laws and institutions. Several disinformation narratives are common across the EU, but national cases with their own particularities are also present.
This collaborative investigation aims to analyze the main disinformation narratives conveyed by the many false news stories detected by the organizations forming the EDMO fact-checking network. This article is not meant to deal with any political issues or opinions; “disinformation narratives” are intended to be sets of demonstrably false news stories that are consistent in conveying particular messages.
Main narratives
There are various false stories circulating against the LGBTQ+ community across Europe. Many appear to stem from current issues (such as the passing of legislation in specific countries, as happened with the recent approval of the so-called “Trans Law” in Spain), others are based on conspiracy theories. Among the multitude of false stories, five main narratives can...
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