Business
Tackling the Misinformation Quandary: The crucial role of social media in elections
By Indika De Zoysa
Social media platforms have become the epicentre of our collective digital discourse in an age defined by the relentless pace of technological advancement. These platforms have revolutionised how we communicate and emerged as influential players in the realm of politics, particularly during elections. I have observed with keen interest the profound impact of social media on our democratic processes, and it’s time to address a critical issue at hand: the role of social media in disseminating misinformation and how we can counter this growing challenge.
The Information Revolution: A Double-Edged Sword
The rise of social media has been nothing short of revolutionary. It has democratized information, giving voice to the voiceless and empowering citizens to engage with political discourse as never before. In the Sri Lankan context, it has allowed diverse voices to be heard, promoted transparency, and enhanced civic participation. However, like any powerful tool, social media comes with its complexities and risks.
Misinformation, the spread of false or misleading information, has emerged as a formidable challenge in the digital age. During elections, this menace is amplified, potentially influencing voter behaviour and public opinion and even undermining the very fabric of our democracy. Falsehoods, rumours, and unverified claims can spread like wildfire, often with malicious intent.
Social media platforms have a pivotal role to play in addressing the misinformation crisis. They are not just facilitators of communication but curators of the information landscape. As such, they are responsible for ensuring that the content disseminated on their platforms is accurate, fair, and reliable.
The Role of Community Guidelines
Social media platforms have developed Community Guidelines to tackle misinformation, a set of rules and standards that govern user behaviour. These guidelines serve as a cornerstone in maintaining the integrity of information dissemination. Community Guidelines are more than just rules; they are a commitment to fostering a safe and respectful online environment. They provide the framework for responsible content creation, striking a balance between freedom of expression and responsible conduct.
A global platform like TikTok has recognized its responsibility to maintain the integrity of information dissemination, particularly during elections. Their Community Guidelines, a set of rules that govern user behaviour, play a pivotal role in ensuring that those seeking to spread falsehoods do not hijack the platform. These guidelines are more than just a set of rules – they are a commitment to fostering a safe, responsible, and respectful online community. They provide a framework that strikes a delicate balance between free expression and responsible conduct.
Ensuring Fair Elections
During elections, the role of these guidelines becomes paramount. They serve as a safeguard against the spread of false information, divisive content, and external interference. Platforms that enforce these guidelines diligently can help ensure that the electoral process remains fair, transparent, and free from manipulation.
However, the responsibility doesn’t rest solely with the platforms. Users, too, play a critical role. Educating users about the significance of responsible content creation and the consequences of spreading misinformation is essential. Awareness campaigns and digital literacy initiatives are vital components of the misinformation mitigation strategy.
A Collective Endeavor
In conclusion, countering misinformation on social media during elections is a collective endeavour. It requires the vigilance of platforms, the active participation of users, the guidance of policymakers, and the scrutiny of civil society. As citizens, we must approach social media with discernment, verifying information before accepting it as fact.
Misinformation poses a clear and present danger to the democratic process. To safeguard our democracy, we must foster an environment in which social media platforms adhere to robust Community Guidelines; users are educated about responsible content creation, and the principles of truth and transparency guide our digital discourse.
As we look ahead to future elections, both in Sri Lanka and across the globe, let us remember that the power of social media can be harnessed for the betterment of our society and our democracy. It is up to us to ensure that this powerful tool remains a force for good, upholding the principles upon which our democracy is built.
[The writer is the Chairman of The Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS)]
Reliable and affordable energy is essential to Sri Lanka’s economic growth, industrial development and competitiveness. As the country seeks to strengthen energy security while reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, the energy sector will be a key area of discussion at the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12-13 October 2026.
The session, “Beyond Fossil Dependence: Balancing Security, Sustainability, and Growth,” will examine how Sri Lanka can diversify its energy sources, accelerate renewable energy adoption and attract investment while ensuring a reliable energy supply for businesses and households. Discussions will also consider the infrastructure and policy frameworks needed to support the country’s transition towards a modern and competitive energy system.
Ms. Edore Onomakpome – Regional Infrastructure Industry Manager – Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal, at the International Finance Corporation will keynote the session, and join the panel discussion featuring G.M.R.D. Aponsu – Secretary to the Ministry of Energy, Damitha Kumarasinghe – Director General (Chief Executive Officer), Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka, and Manjula Perera – Managing Director, WindForce PLC. The discussion will be moderated by Sheran Fernando – Senior Advisor, Plus94.
The session will also explore the role of public-private collaboration in developing new energy solutions, encouraging investment and creating opportunities within Sri Lanka’s evolving energy sector. It will consider how energy policy and investment decisions can support both economic expansion and the country’s longer-term sustainability objectives.
The Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 is supported by its valued sponsors and partners. Platinum Sponsor – Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka, Gold Sponsor – VISA Worldwide (Pvt) Ltd., Bronze Sponsor – South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd., Strategic Development Partner – Asian Development Bank, Telecommunication Partner – Dialog Telecommunication, Television Partner – Dialog Television, Session Sponsors – David Pieris Motor Company (Pvt) Ltd., Hemas Holdings PLC, Sunshine Holdings PLC, International Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd., Official Logistics Partner – Hayleys Advantis Limited, Official Airline – SriLankan Airlines Ltd., Official Hospitality Partner – Shangri-La Colombo, Airline Partner – China Eastern Air Holding Co. Ltd.
Registrations are now open at https://sleis.chamber.lk/. For more information, contact Alikie on 011 558 8805 (alikie@chamber.lk) or Shanuka on 0701082541 (events.division@chamber.lk).
Business
A fresh chapter for the George Keyt Foundation: A renewed commitment to the Sri Lankan art ecosystem
The George Keyt Foundation (GKF), dedicated to preserving the legacy of modernist painter George Keyt and fostering local art, has announced strategic appointments to its leadership team, bringing together a mix of global academic expertise, corporate leadership, and artistic passion. These enhancements aim to inject fresh expertise and academic depth into the Foundation’s long-term vision.
Establishment of the New Advisory Committee
To broaden its operational reach and deepen its engagement with the global art market, the George Keyt Foundation has established an Advisory Committee. The newly appointed committee members include:
• Dr Sujatha Meegama is a Senior Lecturer in Buddhist Art History at the Courtauld. She is an acclaimed art historian, author and academic, bringing specialised knowledge in South Asian art history to guide the foundation’s curatorial and educational directives.
• Dr Shamil Wanigaratne: A clinical psychologist, author, and avid art historian, Shamil will lend his unique perspective to help the foundation design meaningful public outreach and cultural preservation strategies.
• Abbas Esufally: A veteran corporate leader and patron of the arts, Abbas is transitioning from his role as a GKF Trustee to this advisory position, where he will continue to offer his sharp business acumen and extensive network.
New Trustee Appointment
Leesha Captain has been appointed to the Board of Trustees. Inspired by Sri Lankan artists, Leesha is a recognised supporter of the local art scene. Leesha’s hands-on perspective will strengthen the foundation’s core team as they develop and design new art programs.
A Vision for the Future
“These new appointments mark an exciting chapter for us as we build on our decades-long history of promoting Sri Lankan artists,” says Malaka Talwatte, Chairman of the Foundation. “The combination of Leesha on the board, alongside the diverse expertise of our new Advisory Committee, will significantly amplify our efforts in curating high-profile exhibitions and expanding local and international partnerships”.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah, part of the Privé Collection under Maldivian-owned Sun Siyam Resorts, will mark World Tourism Day on 27 September 2026 with a full day programme celebrating the culture, cuisine and natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s east coast, paired with community focused sustainability activities.
The celebrations open with a special buffet of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, followed by a street food festival showcasing regional snacks and traditional sweets rarely found on resort menus. A signature World Tourism Day mocktail and cocktail, created for the occasion, will be served through the day, while traditional Sri Lankan cultural dance performances bring the island’s heritage to life for guests.
Beyond the festivities, the resort has planned a tree planting activity with guests and a beach or park clean up campaign, both reflecting Sun Siyam Pasikudah’s ongoing commitment to responsible tourism along Sri Lanka’s northeast coast.
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Showers in the Western, Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Batticaloa and Ampara districts.
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