DISINFORMATION IN POLAND IN THE CONTEXT OF FAKE NEWS AND THEIR IMPACT ON CIVIL SOCIETY

The article presents the functioning of disinformation mechanisms in society, against the background of the analysis of specific cases in the Polish and international political system and attempts to search for effective strategies to counteract this harmful phenomenon. The considerations presented are a personal reflection on the social responsibility of messages coming from the media, politicians, and citizens, which often misinform the environment and have a negative impact on the formation of a conscious and responsible civil society. The publication covers the areas in which disinformation and fake news are used today and indicates the main reasons for their dissemination. The study used the historical and legal method related to showing the genesis of the phenomenon, as well as the dogmatic and legal method in the interpretation of legal texts, and the theoretical and legal method appropriate for the legal analysis of specific legal institutions. Based on the considerations, conclusions presented are related to ideas for counteracting the spread of fake news, recognizing it in the mass media and raising the awareness of citizens who use it in the belief that it is true in the mass media and social media. An analysis of the phenomenon of disinformation and fake news in Poland, considering their impact on civil society in the areas of education, politics, and ethics. In the context of a dynamically changing information landscape, it is important to understand the mechanisms of disinformation and identify ways to combat them to promote reliable exchange of information and maintain a healthy foundation of democracy. In the context of the global challenge of disinformation, Poland, as a democratic country, must develop strategies and tools that will help effectively defend information integrity and promote reliable public debate, especially during the election campaign. It is worth understanding how disinformation affects various areas of social life to effectively address its negative effects and focus efforts on building a more informed and resilient society using inclusive language in media messages.