President Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi has emphasized the importance of global leaders fostering trust, strengthening credibility, and upholding integrity in the systems they adopt, develop, or utilize.

Speaking at the virtual plenary of the 3rd Summit for Democracy Leaders, focusing on "Technology, Elections, and Mis/Disinformation," President Masisi highlighted the critical role of trust and credibility in fostering stability and confidence in various systems, especially when bolstered by communication technology. He stressed that undermining such trust directly challenges democracy's potential to provide stability and trustworthiness.

President Masisi urged fellow leaders to support countries, particularly those in the global south and underdeveloped regions, in enhancing the integrity of their democratic systems through empathetic assistance and protection, especially concerning technology systems.

He emphasized the necessity of comprehensive investment to ensure widespread access and utilization of digital systems and platforms, along with their stability, to reinforce democratic governance.

President Masisi reiterated Botswana's commitment to defending its democracy as the country approaches the 2024 elections in October. He highlighted Botswana's status as a beacon of democracy in Africa, representing the aspirations of many nations in their pursuit of democratic governance.

Regarding technology and misinformation, President Masisi acknowledged the complexities brought about by ongoing technological transformations, recognizing both opportunities and challenges, particularly in the realm of disinformation and misinformation.

President Masisi commended President Yoon Suk-yeol of South Korea for hosting the summit, where leaders from over 30 countries were expected to discuss digital threats to democracy, including misinformation, artificial intelligence, and deep fakes. They aimed to explore the use of new technologies to benefit society without compromising democracy and sought cooperation in this regard.

Reports have indicated that fake news and disinformation, facilitated by artificial intelligence and digital technology, not only violate individual freedoms and human rights but also pose threats to democratic systems.