Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week 2024 is just around the corner, running from October 24 to October 31. This year, the focus is on “The New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information.” It’s a week dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of media and information literacy in today’s digital age. Here are some ways media practitioners can get involved and help promote MIL within your communities.

Why Media and Information Literacy Matters

Media and information literacy is crucial in our digital world. It empowers individuals to critically evaluate information, understand the role of media in society, and make informed decisions as digital citizens. MIL helps combat disinformation, promotes online safety, and fosters a more inclusive and well-informed public.

How to Get Involved

1. Announce and Advocate: Use your platforms to announce #GlobalMILWeek. Highlight the need for media and information literacy and advocate for local best practices.
2. Engage with Experts: Invite MIL practitioners, educators, and digital content creators as guests on your newscasts, talk shows, webinars and podcasts or other media content. Their insights can help spread awareness about the importance of MIL.
3. Promote MIL Content: Create and share short informational content about MIL with your audience. This could be in the form of news articles, videos, or social media posts.
4. Organize Community Events: Partner with local schools or NGOs to hold workshops, webinars, or interactive sessions such as newsroom simulations and podcast creation. These activities can engage the community and promote MIL.
5. Integrate MIL in Your Editorial Policy:  Review and incorporate media and information literacy principles in your organization’s editorial guidelines. This commitment ensures that MIL values are upheld in your content creation process.
6. Join the Global Movement: Register your events with UNESCO to be part of the global list of celebrations. This not only amplifies your efforts but also connects you with a network of MIL advocates worldwide.

Any way you choose to participate, your involvement will contribute to a global effort to promote media and information literacy. Register your event with UNESCO, share your experiences, and be part of the change.

For more information, visit the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy Alliance website or follow the conversation on social media using #GlobalMILWeek.