We invite stakeholders from academia/research, civil society, education, including youth organisations, as well as journalists and social media content creators from Europe to join us on 20-21 January for the international conference and workshop “Education in Countering Gendered Disinformation.”
This online event brings together experts and practitioners to discuss how gendered disinformation operates, how it affects individuals and societies, and how education can act as a key tool for prevention and resilience-building.
Background and Thematic Overview
Gendered disinformation – false, misleading or manipulated and harmful information – is a specific form of disinformation that disproportionately targets women and members of the LGBTQ+ community by exploiting patriarchal gender stereotypes. The trend is widespread globally, targeting high-profile women politicians, activists, journalists, and public figures.
The conference on 20 January includes three thematic panels:
1. Understanding Gendered Disinformation and its Impact on Society
This session introduces the core mechanisms, forms, and narratives of gendered disinformation. Speakers will present findings from the G-LENS focus groups and research, illustrating how gendered disinformation affects public perception, individual wellbeing, and democratic participation. Participants will gain a clear understanding of why gendered disinformation is a growing societal challenge.
2. Context and Landscapes for Understanding Gender-based Disinformation. European and national Legislation, Gender biases, anti-Gender Movements and Amplification of Disinformation through social media and AI
This session provides a broader perspective on the political, social, and cultural factors that enable the spread of gendered disinformation. Experts will discuss European and national legal frameworks, persistent gender biases, the rise of anti-gender movements, and the ways disinformation is amplified through digital platforms and social dynamics.
3. Tackling gendered disinformation from an educational standpoint
Focusing on solutions, this session explores how education can counter gendered disinformation. The panel will highlight practical approaches to building learners’ resilience, promoting critical thinking, and fostering gender-sensitive educational environments.
On 21 January there will be a two-hour workshop for teachers, educators, and youth workers. During the session we will:
- discuss how gendered disinformation affects young people and their civic engagement;
- introduce participants to the methodology used in G-LENS on gender equality and disinformation;
- facilitate participants’ reflection on how selected activities from the G-LENS methodology could be adapted and applied in their work with young people (in classrooms and youth work settings).
AGENDA
20 January 2026
9:00 – 09:30* Welcoming Participants
09:30 – 10:00 Opening Speeches
10:00 – 11:30 Keynote Speech
11:30 – 12:00 Break
12:00 – 13:15 Panel 1: Understanding Gendered Disinformation and its Impact on Society
13:15 – 14:00 Break
14:00 – 15:30 Panel 2: Context and Landscapes for Understanding Gender-based Disinformation. European and national Legislation, Gender biases, anti-Gender Movements and Amplification of Disinformation through social media and AI
15:30 – 16:00 Break
16:00 – 17:30 Panel 3: Tackling Gender-based Disinformation from an Educational Standpoint
17:30 – 18:00 Closing Remarks & Discussions
*Eastern European Time
21 January 2026 - TBD
About the Event
The conference & workshop are organized by the ANAIS Association in Romania, with the support of Fundacja British Council (Poland), as part of the international G-LENS project (Gender-Inclusive, Long-lasting, and Empowered Networks and Societies). This two-year (2024-2026) European project, co-funded by the European Union, adopts a comprehensive approach to countering gendered disinformation. By combining research, education, and advocacy, G-LENS empowers young people to create a more inclusive and democratic digital environment.
About the host
ANAIS Association is a Romanian civil society organisation founded in 2011, dedicated to preventing gender-based violence and supporting survivors. It offers free psychological, legal, and social assistance to women and children, having supported over 11,000 people, including refugees. ANAIS also advocates for legal reforms, contributing to the recognition of cyberviolence as a form of domestic abuse. The organisation runs educational programs, public campaigns, and professional trainings to raise awareness and promote early intervention. Additionally, it conducts research on GBV, strengthens the capacity of institutions and NGOs, and participates in national and regional cooperation networks.
Disclaimer
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.