Political Economy of Fact Checking: Global Perspectives and Future Indications

In the era of post-truth politics, fact-checking has emerged as a crucial mechanism to safeguard democratic values, counter misinformation, and ensure accountability. However, the institutional and financial architecture of fact-checking initiatives remains entangled in the political economy of media and governance. This article explores the political economy of fact-checking through global case studies, examining ownership structures, funding sources, political affiliations, and institutional biases. It evaluates the implications of these dynamics for the credibility, neutrality, and sustainability of fact-checking enterprises. The study further considers future trends and challenges in fact-checking, including artificial intelligence, platform regulation, and transnational collaborations.