Media and information literacy in the face of election disinformation generated by artificial intelligence: experiences from Ecuador

Introduction Electoral disinformation reinforced by generative artificial intelligence (AI) constitutes a threat to democracies by undermining public trust and misleading citizens. In Ecuador, this phenomenon is exacerbated by weak regulatory frameworks and gaps in media and information literacy (MIL), particularly among vulnerable groups such as rural inhabitants, women, and older adults, owing to their limited critical competencies. The aim of this research is to analyse how MIL levels among vulnerable population groups in Ecuador condition their exposure to, and responses to, AI-generated electoral disinformation, with reference to the 2025 presidential elections. The case of Ecuador is relevant because the challenges posed by AI-generated electoral disinformation are not unique to Ecuador; they are common throughout Latin America, as are institutional fragility and polarisation. Methodology A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods was employed, with a descriptive and explanatory scope, executed through a survey of 405 participants, 12 semi-structured interviews with experts, and six focus group discussions with 35 participants representing heterogeneous profiles. The analysis included descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests and correlations, alongside qualitative thematic analysis. Results The findings reveal a high perceived impact of disinformation on democratic trust, though not on individual voting decisions. A significant correlation was confirmed between the capacity to identify AI-generated content and the valuation of MIL as a mitigation mechanism. Rural groups and older adults exhibited greater limitations in detecting disinformation, whilst women were found to be subject to increasing digital political violence of a gendered nature through manipulated content. Discussion and conclusions Low MIL levels facilitate the spread and impact of AI-generated electoral disinformation, creating an environment of differentiated vulnerability. A cascade perception model was identified, whereby recognition of informational harm activates demand for institutional regulation. MIL consolidates itself as an appropriate strategy, though insufficient without corresponding regulatory frameworks and effective multi-sectoral coordination. It is concluded that the strengthening of media competencies is indispensable for protecting electoral integrity in contexts of digital innovation.