Health Communication and Fact Checking Tools

Building and sustaining public trust in the life sciences is essential for the effective uptake of health innovations, the responsible use of emerging biotechnologies, and the societal resilience needed to counter misinformation. This proposed Horizon Europe initiative seeks to advance a comprehensive framework for science communication, public engagement, and health literacy by developing integrated outreach strategies and state-of-the-art fact-checking tools tailored to diverse European audiences.

The project will combine interdisciplinary research with participatory methodologies to better understand public perceptions, information needs, and trust dynamics. It will design and deploy multi-platform communication interventions—including digital campaigns, interactive tools, community-based engagement, and targeted outreach to vulnerable or underserved groups—to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible, trustworthy narratives. Novel verification technologies and rapid fact-checking mechanisms will support the timely correction of false or misleading information related to health, biotechnology, and life sciences research.

The Center for Social Innovation (CSI) is seeking consortium partners to collaborate in this effort, offering its strong expertise in public outreach through multiple digital media channels, its access to public authorities and decision-makers, and its established track record in generating social impact and high-quality science communication. By working with academic, clinical, civic, and technological partners, the project aims to build a scalable and inclusive ecosystem that empowers citizens, strengthens informed decision-making, and enhances societal trust in scientific and health institutions across Europe.