In contemporary digital society, democratic processes are increasingly challenged by misinformation and AI-generated content. Consequently, fact-checking has evolved from a journalistic routine into a critical "democratic infrastructure" that supports electoral integrity. This paper examines "Fact-Check Thailand 2026," a multi-stakeholder intervention designed to strengthen information integrity ahead of the 2026 general election. The initiative was collaboratively implemented by Thammasat University, Thai PBS, Cofact Thailand, and the German Embassy, aiming to expand fact-checking capacities among journalists, youth, and citizens. Methodologically, the study employs action research, combining an intensive workshop with qualitative observation and learning assessments. The curriculum focused on three pillars: Policy Checking, Fact Checking, and Photo Checking. Findings reveal three key outcomes: (1) a significant increase in participants' competencies in evaluating political claims and AI-generated content; (2) heightened civic awareness, shifting the perception of fact-checking from a professional task to a public responsibility; and (3) the production of 54 original fact-checking pieces addressing election-related claims. The study argues that initiatives like Fact-Check Thailand 2026 function as democratic infrastructures connecting media practice, civic participation, and digital citizenship. It contributes to scholarly discourse by demonstrating how participatory fact-checking models can strengthen electoral resilience in a pre-election context.

Authors:
Wilaiwan Jongwilaikasaem, Thammasat University, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Professor Wilaiwan Jongwilaikasaem is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Thammasat university in Thailand

See this presentation on the full schedule – Tuesday Schedule

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