The objectives of implementing the Critical Balance project are primarily focused on addressing the negative societal impacts of conspiracy theories among young people, including racism, intolerance, and resistance towards science. To achieve this, the project sets specific goals: Support and build the capacity among youth workers with innovative methods and training on how to confront and prevent conspiracy beliefs, especially those with a racist core, among young people in both online and offline practices. Increase critical thinking and critical media literacy skills among young people. This is aimed at enabling them to better understand and deal with conspiracy theories when confronted with them, thereby better coping with the novel risks and implications of digitalization and the availability of disinformation. These objectives are geared towards empowering young people with the skills necessary to critically evaluate information, particularly conspiracy theories and disinformation prevalent in digital media. The project seeks to cultivate a more informed and discerning young populace that can engage constructively with the digital information landscape
The application for the Critical Balance project was motivated by the societal challenges posed by the spread of conspiracy theories during the uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic. These theories, thriving especially among young people due to increased social media use and isolation, have led to various negative societal impacts, including decreased vaccination rates, lower election participation, environmental negligence, and the spread of prejudice. Recognizing a significant need to enhance young people's critical thinking and media literacy skills, the project aims to empower them to identify and counteract conspiracy theories and disinformation through non-formal, informal methods, and an e-learning environment. Additionally, it addresses the need for capacity building among youth workers to effectively tackle these issues.