In a context where disinformation and hate speech are spreading across Europe, especially on social media, younger generations are among the groups most vulnerable to information manipulation. Rumours and negative stereotypes targeting ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ communities, and other groups at risk of marginalisation fuel social exclusion and discrimination, negatively affecting social cohesion and the values of equality and diversity promoted by the European Union.
The VerifAI: Artificial Intelligence applied to the anti-rumours strategy project represents an innovative and necessary response to these challenges, through a digital and educational strategy that encourages and supports critical thinking and youth participation. The project combines artificial intelligence with non-formal education methodologies to provide young people with practical tools to question and counter rumours, stereotypes, and prejudices encountered both online and in their everyday environments. The integration of an AI-based chatbot on Instagram, together with training pathways and the creation of a network of anti-rumours agents, offers an approach that is not only accessible and effective, but also aligned with the digital habits and needs of today's young people.
Moreover, VerifAI recognises young people as agents of change, empowering them to become active promoters of awareness and social transformation. The need for this project arises from the urgency to act in response to growing disinformation and social polarisation.
To address these needs, the project brings together organisations with strong experience in non-formal education, inclusion, and technology, ensuring effective implementation and long-term impact.
European Union – Erasmus+ KA220 YOU
The objective is to support young people, educators, and the educational community in countering disinformation, prejudice, and hate speech, while promoting critical thinking, social inclusion, and digital skills through:
- the analysis of the main rumours and stereotypes spread among young people and the training of young people capable of countering them;
- the development of an artificial intelligence chatbot to help identify fake news;
- the training of educators and youth workers on the ethical and responsible use of AI tools;
- the implementation of pilot activities and workshops in schools and youth spaces;
- public awareness-raising initiatives to give voice to people affected by stereotypes and to promote more inclusive local policies.
Direct beneficiaries:
- Young people attending youth centres and schools, with particular attention to those belonging to vulnerable groups;
Indirect beneficiaries:
- Youth workers and the educational community working with young people who need innovative and effective tools to support youth groups;
- Local communities reached through awareness-raising activities.
Project activities
The project aims to strengthen the role of young people, youth workers, and the educational community in addressing disinformation, prejudice, and hate speech, phenomena that are increasingly present in digital spaces and everyday life. Through training pathways based on the anti-rumours methodology, participants develop critical thinking, information analysis skills, and practical competences to recognise stereotypes and fake news and to respond constructively to situations of discrimination, also through the conscious use of artificial intelligence. The project also includes moments of listening and dialogue, such as focus groups, aimed at identifying the most widespread rumours among young people and their real needs. To support these pathways, dedicated digital tools are developed, such as the “VerifAI” chatbot and a personalised digital learning environment, offering reliable resources and opportunities for deeper learning. The activities are completed by public awareness initiatives, such as Living Libraries and creative workshops, which foster direct encounters with people affected by stereotypes, promoting empathy, inclusion, and positive impact on local communities.