Global Fact 2026 Conference Tackles Misinformation Amidst Funding Crisis

Fact-checkers from across the globe convened in Vilnius, Lithuania, for the 13th Global Fact conference, held from June 17-19, 2026. Approximately 300 participants gathered at the Taskius School and Art Center to dissect the complex issues surrounding misinformation and disinformation.

The annual conference, hosted by the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN), a network of fact-checking organizations under the Poynter Institute, serves as a crucial platform for learning, discussion, and forging new collaborations. Tempo, an Indonesian news organization and IFCN member, participated in the event, aiming to integrate best practices into its newsroom.

This year's conference felt more somber than previous ones, with a reduced attendance of around 300 participants compared to the 500-plus at prior events. IFCN Director Angie Drobnic Holan attributed the decrease to significant budget cuts affecting fact-checking organizations. She highlighted that major tech companies monopolize digital profits without investing adequately in information accuracy.

Holan also pointed to the escalating challenges posed by political attacks and harassment, as well as the impact of AI-generated overviews that reduce user engagement with official news sites. These factors have led to staff reductions, resource limitations, and increased workloads for many organizations. Despite these difficulties, Holan invoked Edgar A. Guest's poem "Keep Going," urging the community to remain resilient and "never give up."

Amidst the challenges, the fact-checking community demonstrated its resilience. Four organizations received Global Fact Awards for impactful investigative work. The Pravda Association from Poland was recognized for its investigation into health disinformation, which prompted health institutions to take action. Efe Verifica from Spain was also honored for its work.