The challenge of verifying what we see, hear, and read is not new. However, the task of distinguishing reliable information from misinformation and disinformation has become significantly more complex, amplified by digital technologies and, more recently, by the emergence of generative artificial intelligence. We are exposed to overwhelming volumes of information daily. Producing and disseminating misleading content has never been easier, while identifying and countering it has become increasingly difficult.
This reality raises urgent questions: How can we strengthen digital resilience? What skills and knowledge are needed to navigate safely in a media landscape that is global, fast-moving, and increasingly fragmented?
Media literacy is a critical part of the answer. In essence, it refers to the knowledge and competencies needed to engage confidently and responsibly with the media. This includes understanding the difference between editorial media and other information sources and applying a critical perspective to the content we consume, create, and share. Media literacy enables informed choices – and by extension, an informed population.
Improving media literacy is a key priority for the Nordic media authorities. To strengthen our shared knowledge base, authorities in all Nordic countries have joined forces to conduct a comprehensive survey on multiple dimensions of media literacy. We are grateful to the Nordic Council of Ministers for supporting this important initiative.
The survey explores key areas such as respondents’ media consumption, perceptions of media roles and responsibilities, ethical standards, online safety, and interaction with AI services, among adults as well as children and youth. The findings provide valuable insight that can inform future policies, raise awareness, and support efforts to strengthen both digital resilience and democratic participation.
A well-functioning democracy depends on the populations’ ability to engage in open, informed public discourse – and to do so safely. This is why media literacy is not only relevant, but essential.
The opportunity to view these issues from a cross-Nordic perspective is also of great value. Our countries share many similarities, a fact reflected in the survey results, though important differences also emerge. We hope this report will serve as a foundation for even deeper Nordic cooperation on knowledge development and targeted initiatives to advance media literacy and digital resilience.
Miriam Michaelsen, Medierådet for Børn og Unge, Denmark
Leo Pekkala, Kansallinen audiovisuaalinen instituutti (KAVI), Finland
Elfa Ýr Gylfadóttir, Fjölmiðlanefnd, Iceland
Mari Velsand, Medietilsynet, Norway
Jan-Olof Lind, Mediemyndigheten, Sweden
Catharina Bucht, project co-ordinator, Mediemyndigheten, Sweden