WHO and UN Call on Artists to Combat Coronavirus Misinformation

The United Nations and the World Health Organization have launched an open call for artists worldwide to create visual content that combats misinformation about COVID-19 and promotes universal health messages. The competition, hosted on Talenthouse, runs until April 9, 2020. Artists can choose from topics such as personal hygiene, social distancing, staying home, symptom awareness, anti-contagion measures, fighting misinformation, and hospital donations. Accepted formats include video, audio, PDF, illustrations, and graphics. At least 10 works will be selected by an unnamed jury and shared globally via UN multimedia channels, with additional entries available for download from April 22. The call has sparked controversy because selected artists will not receive payment or reimbursement, only visibility. Talenthouse co-founder Maya Bogle defended the decision, stating that while the platform normally supports fair compensation, this unprecedented situation requires an exception, with all donated funds going to global health efforts. Critics argue the initiative exploits artists during an economic crisis, highlighting a longstanding issue of visibility being offered in exchange for free labor in the creative sector.