Investigation finds nearly 1,000 federal censorship grants

In recent weeks, the topic of government censorship has generated significant discussion. People have raised concerns about various agencies, notably USAID, which many now blame for numerous issues related to free speech. There’s a growing apprehension about misinformation, but the term has become less impactful over time. Censorship is a multifaceted issue involving hundreds, if not thousands, of organizations. Some groups play crucial roles, especially those that provide funding. A recent analysis noted the complexity of these connections and how it allows the system to function with minimal public oversight. Liber-net has compiled a database of nearly 1,000 federal grants from 2016 to 2024 aimed at combating misinformation and related censorship efforts. This project seeks to illuminate the so-called "Censorship Industrial Complex." While not all grants are problematic, many raise questions. Researchers are carefully reviewing each one to assess its impact. Initial findings suggest that around 200 grants are highly questionable, with another 100 being very dubious. The focus is primarily on grants connected to censorship and misinformation efforts, such as fact-checking and content moderation. Some grants have funded work aimed at monitoring social media and screening information for accuracy. Once the examination of the remaining grants is complete, a more thorough picture will emerge. This should clarify how much funding supports censorship and the identities of the organizations involved. Some critics have pointed out problems with the current approach, likening it to using dynamite to catch fish, which can be indiscriminate. Mistakes have been made, leading to false accusations against individuals based on faulty data. While USAID is under scrutiny, the research indicates that agencies like the State Department and the National Science Foundation also contribute significantly to censorship initiatives. The military has also issued substantial contracts to combat misinformation, dwarfing smaller grants given to other groups. Addressing this complex situation will require more than simple cuts to government funds. It involves understanding the support from private foundations and the potential role of international organizations.