THE ABC BOOK
OF MEDIA LITERACY

Media literacy is no longer optional—it’s essential for the future of democracy. In an era of hybrid warfare and pervasive disinformation, particularly targeting vulnerable populations, mastering the ability to discern truth from falsehood is critical. This skill is now as important for children as traditional literacy.

This August, Finland is launching a world-first initiative on this scale: every ninth grader will receive ‘The ABC Book of Media Literacy’ designed to combat the rising tide of disinformation. Using the alphabet as a framework, this innovative tool equips young Finns with the critical skills needed to navigate today’s complex media landscape, especially as AI accelerates the spread of falsehoods.

Globally recognized for its excellence in education, Finland is once again setting a new benchmark. By empowering the next generation with the tools to think critically and act responsibly, Finland is not just safeguarding its youth but reinforcing the very foundations of democracy. News Media Finland (NMF), the organization behind the initiative, will ensure this vital resource reaches every school, fortifying the resilience of Finnish society.

“We live in a fragmented media landscape, social media bubbles, the rise of AI, disinformation and misinformation, global conflicts and a weakening economy. The combination of these factors has led to increased confusion and anxiety among young people online. Political division and increasingly radical politicians aim to erode journalism’s credibility, blurring the line between truth and fabrication.

In order to resolve this issue, media literacy is crucial but with every passing year it becomes more strained and weakened. The primer’s mission is to raise awareness and equip new generations with more tools and understanding to navigate an increasingly polarized physical and digital world.”