METHODOLOGY OF THE “GEOPOST” WORK
We follow a detailed methodology that is consistent with the Code of Principles. Our methodology is described below:
Selection of Claims
The claims are drawn from multiple sources, such as fact-checking Russian narratives about the Balkans, media outlets, and social media. These claims can include viral messages on social media in areas such as politics, public policy, data, government schemes, major events, and statements by public officials.
Every morning, the fact-checking team conducts a detailed discussion of these claims before making a selection. During this process, various factors are taken into account, including:
- The potential for real-world harm
- The potential to go viral
- Impact on the audience
- The credibility of the person making the claim
- The overall significance of the claim
Only verifiable claims are selected—those that contain a clear and measurable statement, rather than a vague assertion. We also ensure that there is no political or other bias in the selection process, giving equal weight to claims from leaders of different political parties.
Claim Verification
A detailed verification process is carried out to determine whether the claim was actually made and in what context. Verification sources include:
- Official press releases
- Speech videos
- Public events
- Official and verified accounts on social networks
The original source of the claim is always linked to the fact-checking report. If the team is unable to confirm the claim, it contacts the person or entity responsible for it.
Fact-Finding and Verification
Once a claim is identified, in-depth research is conducted using reliable sources, such as:
- Government data and information
- Trusted news sites
- Image sharing platforms (like Getty Images, AP, etc.)
Relevant data is presented in tables, graphs, and other formats to support fact-checking. To verify data-related claims, the analysis goes beyond verifying the claim—also examining historical data and policy changes over time. For transparency, official sources are hyperlinked in fact-checking reports.
For viral claims on social media, all sources used in fact-checking are hyperlinked so that users can independently verify the information. If a news site is used as a source, at least one other source is consulted to confirm the findings.
The Geopost Platform's Methodology for Combating Media Disinformation
The Geopost platform aims to combat media disinformation, especially the growing trend of spreading inaccurate information disguised as facts, publishing fake and unverified news, and promoting various disinformation narratives, including Russian narratives in the Balkans.
This methodology defines the fundamental principles that guide the platform's work, including:
- The process of selecting content and media for monitoring and evaluation
- The method of evaluating individual content and all media
- Using resources for research
- The structure of fact-checking analyses
- Methodology for creating lists of media with dubious credibility
- Selecting Monitoring Media and Sources
- Media Selection
The media monitored for this platform are selected based on two criteria:
- Their audience in Kosovo, Serbia and the Balkan region
- Publishing and promoting articles and topics that raise ethical and professional concerns
Media that meet the following criteria are also monitored:
- Lack of a clear editorial team or publicly stated staff
- Publishing content without authorship or without citing the original source
- Making claims without verification or support from reliable sources
- Receiving a negative rating from TheGeopost.com
In addition to the media, social media profiles are also monitored if their posts become or intend to become sources of fake news or disinformation.
- Selection of Claims and Items for Evaluation
The Geopost selects claims for analysis in the following ways:
- Readers' requests – If readers request verification of an article or post on social media.
- Viral and popularity – If an article or post becomes widely shared or has public importance.
- Monitoring selected media – If a monitored media outlet publishes potentially false information.
- Sources for Analysis
Verification is based on:
- Official data and statistics
- Information from government institutions
- Reliable media sources
- Official statements of relevant institutions
- Expert opinions and academic studies
- Legal documents and archival data
- Quality Control
The content of each analysis must be approved by the editorial board and reviewed by at least one editor before publication.
- Fact-Checking Analysis Structure
Each analysis contains:
- The claim being assessed
- A clear explanation of evidence-based assessment and methodology
- A final assessment
- Hyperlinks to original articles
Correction Policy:
- If Geopost makes an error in fact-checking or reporting news, it immediately acknowledges the error, investigates the matter, and publishes a clear and accurate correction.
- Transparency is essential—Geopost ensures that corrections are visible and accessible to the public, demonstrating its commitment to journalistic credibility and integrity.
- By openly addressing errors, Geopost strengthens trust with its audience and upholds the highest standards of accuracy in reporting.
All analyzed articles are stored on The Geopost website, including their PDF copy and a link to the archived version.