Download the full report: Needs Assessment among Network Members

The types of skills and knowledge these professionals use differ depending on their profile. However, some tools are widely popular across all groups, such as search engines, scientific publications, and AI chatbots.

A striking trend is that professionals who focus more intensively on disinformation tend to use more advanced skills, such as visual verification, understanding platform policies, identifying generative AI content, and using AI tools — all essential in this field.

While most respondents generally feel confident in recognizing and countering disinformation, they also experience clear challenges. BENEDMO mapped the main needs by focusing on elements that have the greatest impact on their work and are perceived as complex. This resulted in the following priority areas:

Key priorities identified include skills and knowledge in:

• Detecting AI-generated disinformation

• Effectively monitoring social media, including access to large platforms and datasets

• Technical skills such as programming (e.g., in Python)

• Understanding GDPR regulations around personal data

When it comes to risks, (online) harassment stands out as a major concern. While casual insults are usually manageable, coordinated attacks — such as trolling campaigns and threats — have a much greater impact. Professionals are also regularly exposed to shocking content, for example from war zones or natural disasters. Violent, sexually explicit, or hateful content in particular can be mentally taxing.

These insights help BENEDMO better tailor its support to what professionals truly need in their daily fight against disinformation.

Curious to learn more about the results and recommendations? Read the full report: Needs Assessment among Network Members.