During my fellowship, I had the chance to develop a project to explore the susceptibility to misinformation during disasters from a behavioural science perspective. The idea that "without information, people can neither understand nor effectively respond to the events that shape their world" resonated deeply with me. I believe that correct and accessible information is essential for individual and societal resilience during crises, enabling individuals to understand the impact of an event and respond in a timely and effective manner. My project aims to investigate the factors that contribute to susceptibility to misinformation during the "hot phase" of a disaster, with the ultimate goal of identifying strategies that can increase resilience and be addressed during the "cold phase".

The IAS provided an ideal environment for me to delve into this topic. The stimulating discussions with fellow researchers and academics, often from different backgrounds, helped me refine my approach and communicate my ideas more effectively. My time at the IAS also offered numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration, allowing me to connect with scholars, policymakers, and practitioners who share my interests. These connections have been valuable as we take the project further, providing a platform for future collaborations and knowledge sharing.

So looking back at this experiment – even though I spent much less time in this beautiful building than I wanted, I am grateful for the experience of this fellowship, and, of course, the support I received from the IAS team during my fellowship. I look forward to continuing to work on this project, to see what the results will tell and what questions arise, and applying the insights and knowledge gained to inform policy and practice. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the development of more resilient and informed communities, equipped to navigate the challenges of this increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Reference

Internews. (2015). Why information matters. Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org/innovation/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/150513-Internews_WhyInformationMatters.pdf