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UNICRI conducts training on combating biological disinformation in Munich, Germany

UNICRI conducts training on combating biological disinformation in Munich, Germany

Turin, Italy -


On 9-10 December 2024, the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) delivered a specialized training course at the Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr (IMB) in Munich, Germany. Organized in response to a request from the Institute, the training focused on enhancing the microbiologists’ capacities to effectively identify and counter disinformation campaigns targeting their work.

The Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr is a leading research and diagnostic centre in microbiology and biosecurity. As a high-profile institution, it is a potential target for misinformation and disinformation campaigns that aim to undermine public trust and delegitimize scientific research. For this reason, it is crucial that the subject-matter experts working in biological research are aware of the risks and are equipped with skills and techniques to combat disinformation.

Over the course of two days, participants engaged with UNICRI experts to explore topics such as:

  • The strategic objectives behind chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) disinformation;
  • Techniques used to spread disinformation, including conspiracy theories;
  • Using open-source intelligence (OSINT) and other online tools to detect and analyse disinformation;
  • Techniques to debunk disinformation.

UNICRI’s interactive approach encouraged participants to actively engage with the challenges presented, enhancing their understanding and practical skills to address relevant risks. Through different scenario-based exercises and challenges, participants practised crafting clear and accurate messaging to counter misleading narratives. The training emphasized the importance of transparency, credibility, and timely responses in mitigating the impact of disinformation. Participants expressed strong appreciation for the training. Many highlighted the practical benefits of the interactive sessions, which allowed them to hone their communication skills.

The training in Munich aligns with UNICRI’s broader efforts to address the challenges posed by disinformation in the CBRN domain. As the proliferation of digital communication channels increases the speed and scale of disinformation campaigns, the need for targeted interventions and capacity-building initiatives has become more pressing than ever. By strengthening the ability of scientific institutions to respond to these challenges, UNICRI is contributing to global efforts to enhance public trust and safeguard critical research.


Background information:
Since 2020, UNICRI has been monitoring the malicious use of social media and analysing existing technological tools to detect and debunk false information, assessing the advantages and possible challenges of each option in the short and long term. The Institute has published its findings in the Handbook to debunk CBRN disinformation, a practical guide for individuals and entities involved in CBRN risk mitigation at different levels, and is now providing partner countries with related capacity-building activities.
Learn more about our programme: https://unicri.it/topics/CBRN-Disinformation