Mexico launches 'Right of Reply' program to counter fake news

Mexico's federal government has launched a new initiative called "Derecho de réplica" (Right of Reply), aimed at directly countering what it describes as "fake news" and disinformation campaigns circulating in media and social networks. Luisa María Alcalde, head of the Federal Executive's Legal Counsel, led the inaugural broadcast, asserting the program will present official information to correct false narratives.

Alcalde stated that strategies of disinformation have intensified in recent years. The program, scheduled weekly, will expose how fake news networks operate and clarify information on public interest topics. The first broadcast featured Alejandro Svarch Pérez, director general of IMSS-Bienestar, and Sergio Silva Castañeda, head of the Unit for Economic Growth and Development.

During the launch, Alcalde presented two specific cases she labeled as "false narratives." One involved a Radio Fórmula report suggesting an economic crisis in Sinaloa following the governor's leave of absence. Alcalde countered this by presenting state economic activity data showing 4.2% growth. She also refuted a Reforma investigation titled "Financial chaos alert at IMSS-Bienestar," which she deemed false, presenting digital conversation analysis metrics to support her claim.

The initiative also included a presentation on the ecosystem of digital content propagation, illustrating how various accounts amplify media information to increase its reach. Alcalde concluded by dismissing reports that a Spanish deputy visited Mexico to "defend Mexican sovereignty," reminding attendees that the constitution vests sovereignty in the Mexican people.