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Spreading False Content in Political Campaigns: Disinformation in the 2024 European Parliament Elections

Author

Listed:
  • Andreu Casero-Ripollés

    (Department of Communication Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, Spain)

  • Laura Alonso-Muñoz

    (Department of Communication Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, Spain)

  • Diana Moret-Soler

    (Department of Communication Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, Spain)

Abstract

Electoral campaigns are one of the key moments of democracy. In recent times, the circulation of disinformation has increased during these periods. This phenomenon has serious consequences for democratic health since it can alter the behaviour and decisions of voters. This research aims to analyse the features of this phenomenon during the 2024 European Parliament elections in a comparative way. The applied methodology is based on quantitative content analysis. The sample ( N = 278) comprises false information verified by 52 European fact-checking agencies about the campaign for the European elections in 20 EU countries. The analysis model includes variables such as time-period, country, propagator platform, topic, and the type of disinformation. The results show that the life cycle of electoral disinformation goes beyond the closing of the polls assuming a permanent nature. In addition, national environments condition the profiles of this question, which is more intense in Southern and Eastern Europe. Furthermore, although multiple channels are involved, digital platforms with weak ties are predominant in disseminating hoaxes. Finally, migration and electoral integrity are the predominant topics. This favours the circulation of an issue central to the far-right agenda and aims to discredit elections and their mechanisms to undermine democracy. These findings establish the profiles of this problem and generate knowledge to design public policies that combat electoral false content more effectively.

Suggested Citation

  • Andreu Casero-Ripollés & Laura Alonso-Muñoz & Diana Moret-Soler, 2025. "Spreading False Content in Political Campaigns: Disinformation in the 2024 European Parliament Elections," Media and Communication, Cogitatio Press, vol. 13.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:meanco:v13:y:2025:a:9525
    DOI: 10.17645/mac.9525
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. João Pedro Baptista & Anabela Gradim, 2020. "Understanding Fake News Consumption: A Review," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 9(10), pages 1-22, October.
    2. Bendiek, Annegret & Schulze, Matthias, 2019. "Disinformation and elections to the European Parliament," SWP Comments 16/2019, Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP), German Institute for International and Security Affairs.
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