This paper is primarily aimed at policymakers and regulators. It seeks to demystify the complexities of regulating the creation, use, and dissemination of synthetic multimedia content through prevention, detection, and response, and to present these issues in a clear and accessible manner for audiences with varying levels of expertise and technical understanding.
In addition, the paper aims to highlight global initiatives and underscore the vital role and benefits of international standards in promoting regulatory coherence, alignment, and effective enforcement across jurisdictions.
The document offers practical guidance and actionable recommendations, including a regulatory options matrix designed to help policymakers and regulators determine what to regulate (scope), how to regulate (voluntary or mandatory mechanisms), and to what extent (level of effort). It also explores a range of supporting tools – such as standards, conformity assessment mechanisms, and enabling technologies – that can contribute to addressing the challenges of misinformation and disinformation arising from the misuse of multimedia content. At the same time, it emphasizes the importance of striking a balance that enables the positive and legitimate use of either fully or partially synthetic multimedia for societal, governmental, and commercial benefit.
Finally, the paper includes a set of practical checklists for use by policymakers, regulators, and technology providers. These can be used when designing regulations or enforcement frameworks, developing technological solutions, or preparing crisis response strategies. The checklists are intended to help align stakeholder expectations, identify critical gaps, support responsible innovation, and enable conformity with emerging standards and best practices.
