FRAMING STRATEGIES TO EMPOWER POLITICAL ACTORS IN NAVIGATING POST-TRUTH POLITICS IN THE POST-FACTUAL ERA

Abstract

The intensification of post-truth politics has alarmingly interrupted political discourse, especially while covering stories where misinformation and emotional appeals surpass evidence-based discussions. In this post-factual era, political actors must navigate a 
complex media landscape where misinformation, ideological manipulation, and the lack of trust in institutions have become pervasive and propagate rapidly through uncontrolled digital platforms. Political actors must address disinformation, radicalization, and polarization, which threaten the integrity of democratic processes. Hence, this research examines strategies for empowering political actors to navigate and counteract the challenges posed by post-truth politics in the post-factual era. This study aims to identify 
effective strategies political actors can employ to restore public trust, foster evidence-based discourse, and combat the spread of disinformation. Drawing from existing literature on the rise of disinformation in political campaigns, this research highlights the detrimental effects of post-truth narratives on public opinion and democratic institutions. It also explores strategies such as media literacy, cross-party collaboration, and social media regulation, which can empower political actors to address these challenges. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative interviews with political actors, policymakers, and media experts, alongside quantitative content analysis of social media platforms, to assess the prevalence of disinformation and evaluate the effectiveness of current strategies.
The findings suggest that a multifaceted approach including promoting critical thinking, enhancing media literacy, and fostering inclusive governance is necessary to balance the impact of post-truth politics. This research offers a roadmap for political actors, policymakers, and civil society organizations to develop comprehensive strategies that restore trust in democratic processes while enhancing public discourse to combat misinformation. By equipping political actors with the tools to engage in transparent, fact-based communication, this study contributes to building a more informed and resilient political landscape in the digital age