Us Congress House Bill HR1471

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/19/24
• Refer: 9/19/24

Caption

Countering disinformation, propaganda, and misinformation in Latin America and the Caribbean, and calling for multi-stakeholder efforts to address the significant detrimental effects that the rise in disinformation, propaganda, and misinformation in regional information environments has on democratic governance, human rights, and United States national interests.

Impact

If adopted, HR1471 would initiate a series of multi-stakeholder efforts to strengthen information environments and counter disinformation through increased support for independent media, digital literacy education, and regional collaboration. The resolution emphasizes the necessity for U.S. support in combating harmful narratives and protecting access to accurate information in Latin America. Additionally, it would promote transparency in content moderation and strengthen partnerships with local actors, including civil society and independent electoral institutions, in order to foster healthier information ecosystems.

Summary

House Resolution 1471 aims to address the pervasive issue of disinformation, propaganda, and misinformation that threaten democratic governance, human rights, and U.S. national interests in Latin America and the Caribbean. The resolution highlights the alarming rise in disinformation campaigns orchestrated by foreign and domestic actors, and the potential risks these pose to electoral processes and civic stability within the region. In particular, it acknowledges how the integrity of elections in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico is at risk due to malicious information tactics, including those amplified by state-controlled media from countries such as China and Russia.

Contention

Notably, HR1471 does face challenges related to concerns over free expression and the potential government overreach in regulating disinformation. Critics may argue that increased government involvement could lead to censorship or the criminalization of legitimate expression. The resolution carefully navigates this terrain by calling for collaborative approaches and emphasizing respect for freedom of expression as it pertains to efforts to combat misinformation and protect democratic processes. The balance between censorship fears and addressing disinformation remains a central point of contention as discussions surrounding the resolution progress.