Fact-check journalism: Does it influence political behaviour?
Recent decisions by Meta and Google have reignited debate over the role of fact-checking in combating misinformation, its influence on political discourse, and its place in democracy. But does fact-checking truly shape the behaviour of politicians, or is it primarily a tool for public engagement?

In this talk, BBC Verify journalist and Green Templeton College alumni fellow Tom Edgington will present findings from his research into the impact of UK fact-checking initiatives on political messaging.

Drawing on exclusive interviews with politicians, strategists, and advisers from multiple UK governments and political parties, this project explores how fact-checking is perceived within the corridors of power and whether it meaningfully alters political communication.

Join us for an insightful discussion on the influence of fact-checkers, the challenges they face in cutting through political spin, and the future of accountability in an era of misinformation.
Date: 18 March 2025, 13:00
Venue: Online
Speaker: Tom Edgington (BBC Verify)
Organising department: Green Templeton College
Organiser: Green Templeton College (University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address: alumni@gtc.ox.ac.uk
Host: Sophie Schirmacher (Green Templeton College)
Booking required?: Required
Booking url: https://www.gtc.ox.ac.uk/news-and-events/event/fact-check-journalism/
Cost: Free
Audience: Public
Editors: Sophie Schirmacher, Millie Thompson