Information, Barachini: "Journalists are the first line of defense against fake news. AI should be a help, not a substitute."

"It takes ten years to build a publishing reputation; it only takes a second to destroy it." It is with this understanding in mind that Alberto Barachini, Undersecretary to the Prime Minister's Office for Information and Publishing, outlines the government's vision for supporting the information sector, which is being severely challenged by the digital revolution and the advent of artificial intelligence. The Undersecretary, interviewed by Adnkronos Editor-in-Chief Davide Desario, was among the speakers at the first edition of the Icnhos Award, currently underway in Pula at the Sala Bianca at Forte Village.

The starting point of the reform, explains Barachini, is strengthening the role of journalists. "Our reform, inspired by the work of the commission chaired by Sabino Cassese, is based on one premise: the more journalists you have, the more quality information you provide . Journalists are the first, true barrier to fake news and the spread of content that undermines the relationship of trust with citizens." Barachini contrasts journalistic work—which involves verification, listening to multiple sources, and being on the ground—with the superficial consumption of news on social media. "If you feel informed by quickly scrolling through your phone, spending an average of only seven seconds on a story, you end up thinking that everything is the same. But it's not all the same."

The digital giants

The publishing system, according to the undersecretary, is threatened by "unfair competition" from major international operators . "We are faced with what I call the 'Amazon logic': over-the-top publishers distribute information without producing it and without having the same editorial responsibility as us. They use publishers' content without paying them and without being subject to the same costs, the same tax rules, and the same codes of ethics."

This trend, he warns, deprives publishers of the resources needed to invest in quality journalism. The battle for a level playing field for all cannot be fought by Italy alone . "We need Europe. This is why we are committed at the European level, through measures like the AI ​​Act, to restoring balance to the system."

Artificial intelligence is a crucial issue. "While it's true that excessive regulation can stifle innovation, it's also true that publishing isn't a sector like any other," Barachini emphasizes. "It's about people, their critical thinking, and democratic governance. We can't run the risk of failing to regulate a field that can shape public opinion, especially in an era of hybrid warfare."

The risks of AI

To explain the need for regulations, the undersecretary uses a metaphor from Father Benanti: "Think about the introduction of the car. At first, they circulated freely, then accidents made guardrails, driving licenses, and driving courses necessary. So, for AI in information, we've come to this." In this context, self-regulatory codes adopted by news agencies are welcomed because they help build a relationship of trust. The conclusion, therefore, is clear: " If artificial intelligence replaces journalists, we'll be in trouble . If, on the other hand, it helps journalists do their job better, then it will be an opportunity for everyone."

"The challenge is to talk to young people"

Regaining young people's interest in news is the "biggest challenge" for the future of the sector. "Mutual responsibility is needed: if young people aren't following us on traditional channels, we must be able to reach their attention, speaking their language and creating empathy. We must change our way of communicating to pique their interest," he concludes.