Resisting Mainstream Narratives About Migration Through Individual Stories and Alternative Media

<< Background >>We applied for the SpeakUp Migrants project because we saw an urgent need to challenge misinformation and negative narratives surrounding migration. Migrants and refugees are often portrayed in mainstream media using dehumanizing language and misleading stereotypes, which fuels discrimination and social division. At the same time, many migrants lack the tools and platforms to share their own stories, making it difficult for them to counter these narratives.Through this project, we aimed to empower migrants, NGO workers, and journalism learners by equipping them with digital storytelling skills, media literacy, and advocacy tools. We wanted to create a space where migrants could express their personal journeys through photovoice and short videos (Reels), shifting the focus from statistics and political debates to real human experiences.Another key issue we addressed was the spread of fake news and disinformation related to migration. Many people form opinions based on distorted media coverage, and without the skills to critically analyze news, they may unknowingly reinforce harmful biases. By developing an e-guidebook on fake news and disinformation, we provided participants with practical knowledge to recognize,<< Objectives >>Upskilling of the target group and the partner organizations’ workers through providing digital knowledge and implementation of the latest digital technologies to boost inclusion and diversity; Using alternative media to challenge mainstream narratives about migrants and minority groups in general; To provide participants with the tools that enable them to be more tolerant, knowledgeable about the issue, and eager to take action; To explore new innovative tools in the alternative media.<< Implementation >>1- The Project Management.2- Dissemination Activities3- E-Guidebook Design4- LTTA in Berlin5- Power of Hashtag- Social Media Campaign and Exhibition.6- 3 Multiplier Events<< Results >>An e-guidebook on fake news and disinformation.Photovoice and short videos (Reels) to collect stories and to be available with open access online.A pilot training course to test the e-guidebook.An online exhibition on alternative media like Facebook and Instagram pages to disseminate the photovoice stories andshort videos (Reels) collected from the migrants in the partner countries.