About CeMAS
The Center for Monitoring, Analysis and Strategy is a non-profit civil society research institute and think tank based in Berlin, Germany. CeMAS sees itself at the interface of science, politics, and society. Our work focuses on the issues of disinformation, right-wing extremism, antisemitism, and conspiracy ideologies.
CeMAS was founded in March 2021 by Miro Dittrich, Josef Holnburger, Pia Lamberty, Jan Rathje, and Rocío Rocha Dietz. The Center now employs twenty staff, including researchers working in our four main areas – disinformation, right-wing extremism, antisemitism and conspiracy ideologies – as well as software developers and experts in strategic communication.
What We Do
CeMAS uses an interdisciplinary approach combining methods of empirical social research and data science with those of investigative journalism. This ensures a continuous exchange of expertise from various perspectives, which find practical expression in our focus areas of monitoring, analysis, and strategic consulting.
Monitoring
From real-time monitoring of key social media platforms and the use of OSINT methods to (early) detection of disinformation campaigns, we systematically monitor digital communication spaces with a focus on disinformation, right-wing extremism, antisemitism, and conspiracy ideologies. Throughout our work, we are constantly taking into account the interconnection of digital and analogue spheres.
Analysis
We combine qualitative and quantitative research approaches in modern mixed-methods study designs. Using actor, network, and content analyses in addition to discourse-analytical methods and surveys, we identify and measure developments in the fields of disinformation, right-wing extremism, antisemitism and conspiracy ideologies.
Strategic Consulting
Based on our evidence-based analyses and research findings, we provide strategic advice to decision-makers in politics, public authorities, media, and social media platforms. We identify anti-democratic tendencies at an early stage and support key societal actors in responding to them.
Our Vision and Mission
A Better Internet is Possible — a Better World is Necessary
Our vision is a free and pluralistic democracy that serves as a sturdy sanctuary for all people – especially for the most vulnerable members of our society. Today, this democracy is under systematic attack, including in the digital sphere. We work toward a resilient democracy that can not only withstand these attacks, but also protect itself from such threats in the long term – in the understanding that digital and analogue spaces are inextricably enmeshed.
CeMAS analyzes digital threats to democracy including disinformation, right-wing extremism, antisemitism and conspiracy ideologies through theory-driven research, scientifically grounded methods, and innovative technology. We generate actionable findings for policymakers, civil society, media and academia, with the aim of strengthening democratic resilience.