ABSTRACT
This study investigates the perception of political disinformation as a societal problem in North Macedonia, particularly during parliamentary and presidential elections. The study further aims to identify strategies that promote resilience against disinformation while also improving informed decision-making and civic political participation. It uses a mixed quantitative and qualitative method to measure the perceptions of the citizens and representatives of the media sector regarding disinformation and how it affects political and democratic endeavors in North Macedonia. The survey, conducted after the parliamentary and presidential elections among a diverse sample of citizens, provides quantitative insights into public perceptions of the extent to which political disinformation is a significant problem in the country. To complement the quantitative data, qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with representatives from the media sector. These interviews explored their perspectives on the prevalence of political disinformation as a problem in the country and its implications for democratic processes. Key findings in this study include insights from the media representatives in North Macedonia, which reinforce differing perspectives on how much of a threat disinformation poses. These differences varied across media sectors including print, television, and online media outlets. These findings complement the perception of disinformation as a serious threat, especially among specific demographics like age groups, level of education, and ethnicity. Understanding perceptions of disinformation as a serious threat in the country, this article will enhance the ability to establish healthy media consumption habits and reinforce the need for tailored media literacy. Expanding on this concept will strengthen societal resilience, safeguard democratic integrity, and ensure the accuracy of information in North Macedonia.
KEY WORDS
Disinformation. Election Campaign. Informed Citizenry. Media. North Macedonia. Societal Resilience.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.34135/mlar-25-01-11