CSIC researcher Fernando Valladares was the subject of furious attacks on social networks after his public interventions linking the DANA catastrophe in Valencia to climate change. the doctor of Biological Sciences, a very active communicator, received a wave of personal insults adn even threats to his physical integrity: anonymous people asked for his head or that he be included “on the list of people to be eliminated”. This recent example, sadly, is not anecdotal. A pioneering study in our country, carried out by Science Multimedia Centre (SMC) spain, reveals that half of Spanish researchers have received some type of attack after talking about science in the media in the last five years.
The survey, conducted by the scientific direction of the Gureiker research group of the University of the Basque Country (UPV), indicates that insults and questioning of professional capacity and integrity are the most repeated attacks.They are especially widespread on the social network X,followed by comments in the media and online platforms. The issues that provoke the most hateful reactions: Covid-19 and climate change.
The SMC Spain survey is inspired by similar ones carried out by the magazines ‘Nature’, in 2021, and ‘Science’, in 2022. Its results “put emphasis on the negative experiences of research staff in the media during the pandemic and their launched initiatives to respond to harassment,” recalls Pampa García Molina, coordinator of the organization. “The topic is relevant, even more so to avoid misinformation and the need for expert sources to participate in the preparation of news,”. underlines.
The study is based on 237 surveys completed by SMC database experts – 17% of those consulted – between June and July of this year. The participants belong to universities and research centers, the majority with more than 20 years of experience, with equality between men and women. Specialists in biomedicine and environmental sciences stand out. “A high percentage of people who talk about topics such as Covid, vaccines, epidemiology, the environment and climate change have had bad experiences, but they are also the issues most discussed by the media”, underlines Maider Eizmendi Iraola, scientific director of the work.
more than 80% of scientists have a good perception of their media participation. What they value most is the ability to make their research visible and get their message across, and their biggest fear is that it will be distorted. They prefer the news media to opinion centers and, with respect to social networks, they choose X with a important difference – 30% use it daily – compared to others such as Facebook or YouTube.
Women are, with more than ten percentage points of difference, those who have suffered the most negative experiences. “Gender stereotypes work,” says Eizmendi.They endure more comments about their physical appearance and professional skills, which is assumed to be the case with men. “Their professional integrity is attacked”, accusing them, for example, of falsifying their results to favor certain interests.
Anxiety and insecurity
Hate comments, overwhelmingly anonymous – few come from other colleagues – affect the well-being of scientists. Nearly a quarter say the attacks have not affected them,”but the proportion of those reporting anxiety,personal insecurity and other psychological problems is significant,especially among women,” says researcher Gureiker.In these cases, on social networks they choose to block accounts, report bad behavior, make their profiles private or simply not read the comments. 16.5% decide to stop reporting in the media and very few ask their employers for help.As in many cases the dissemination work is voluntary, “they do not turn to their institutions and it is indeed a reality that remains hidden”.
To avoid these situations of harassment,the interviewees ask the institutions for training on science interaction,protection mechanisms and greater involvement to reduce this problem as much as possible.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Fernando Valladares
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Valladares. It’s an honor to have you hear to discuss the recent events surrounding your public statements on the DANA catastrophe in Valencia and its connection to climate change.
Dr. Fernando Valladares: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here and address these important issues.
Editor: The response you received was quite intense, including personal attacks and threats. Can you share your feelings regarding the backlash you faced for addressing climate change publicly?
Dr. Valladares: It’s disheartening, to say the least. As a scientist, my intention was to inform the public about the reality of climate change impacts, especially considering recent events like DANA. The vitriol directed at me highlights a troubling trend where scientific discourse becomes polarized and even perilous.
Editor: We recently learned from a study by the Science Media Center that around half of Spanish researchers have faced similar attacks after engaging with the media. Why do you think this hostility towards scientists is on the rise?
dr. Valladares: I think it reflects a broader societal issue. Misinformation and a distrust in science have grown, exacerbated by social media platforms where extreme views are often amplified.when scientists bring uncomfortable truths to light,they can become targets for individuals who either deny these truths or feel threatened by them.
Editor: Your research is critical for understanding environmental issues. How do you navigate the potential risks of speaking out while still fulfilling your role as a public communicator?
Dr. Valladares: It’s a delicate balance. While I’m aware of the risks, I believe that open communication is essential in science. If we allow fear of backlash to silence us,we hinder public understanding and our ability to address pressing issues effectively. I choose to continue speaking out, not only to share knowledge but also to advocate for science as a tool for social good.
Editor: You mentioned that you felt compelled to speak out due to the urgent nature of climate change.how do you see the role of scientists evolving in today’s landscape?
Dr. valladares: Scientists must be more engaged and proactive in public discourse. This means not only communicating findings but also addressing misconceptions and advocating for policy change. Our role is shifting from the quiet researcher in the lab to active participants in societal discussions.
Editor: It must be exhausting at times, given the hostility, yet you remain optimistic. What keeps you motivated in your work?
Dr. Valladares: the motivation comes from knowing the impact our work can have. Seeing young scientists passionate about climate action and witnessing a growing public awareness gives me hope. It’s crucial that we keep pushing forward for the planet and future generations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Valladares,for your insights and bravery in speaking out on such crucial issues. We wish you continued strength and success in your efforts to promote climate awareness.
Dr. Valladares: Thank you for the possibility to share my thoughts. It’s crucial that we continue these conversations.