Timbuktu Institute warns of disinformation and AI threats in Sahel and Europe

The Timbuktu Institute and the Institute of Political Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences have released a joint report highlighting the growing threat of disinformation to political stability, security, and democratic institutions in the Sahel and Europe. The report emphasizes that disinformation campaigns exploit social fractures, trust crises, and geopolitical rivalries to weaken institutions.

Bakary Sambe, Director of the Timbuktu Institute, warned that disinformation has become generalized and is increasingly utilizing generative artificial intelligence. He noted that jihadist groups are using AI for propaganda and recruitment, including creating video montages and dubbing messages into various African languages.

In response, the institute calls for enhanced interregional cooperation between Africa and Europe, alongside increased investment in media literacy, youth awareness, and digital literacy to combat these evolving technological threats.