MEDIA LITERACY AND PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE: THE SWEDISH APPROACH TO COUNTERING DISINFORMATION

Abstract

This article aims to examine the role of media literacy in building psychological resilience among the population, using Sweden as a case study, focusing on its significance in ensuring national resilience to contemporary information threats. Special attention is given to the analysis of threats posed by Russia, Iran, and China, which actively employ disinformation campaigns to undermine Sweden's information security. The article explores key mechanisms for developing media literacy, including government support, educational initiatives, and cross-sectoral collaboration, which effectively counter these threats. Classification methods, comparative analysis, and content analysis are employed to investigate Sweden's experience in implementing media education. Particular emphasis is placed on the activities of the Swedish Psychological Defence Agency, which plays a central role in implementing national information security strategies. The article analyzes educational programs aimed at developing citizens' critical thinking and information verification skills, as well as the contributions of libraries, media, and other institutions in enhancing media literacy. Sweden’s international cooperation in countering disinformation is also considered, including participation in joint initiatives with international partners to address information threats. The study highlights the correlation between the population's media literacy level and its ability to resist external information influences. It concludes that Sweden’s experience can serve as an effective model for other countries seeking to strengthen their informational defences, protect democratic values, and ensure national security in the face of modern hybrid threats.