Countering Foreign Information Manipulation: U.S. and European Perspectives
A Discussion with Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund Bret Schafer
Dec 05, 2024 / Vienna / European Security and Defence / Global Affairs / Austrian Foreign, Security, Defence Policy
On the 5th of December 2024, the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES) in cooperation with the U.S. embassy in Austria, hosted an event on countering foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), featuring Bret Schafer, Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund. This event, part of the "Transatlantic Talks" series, brought together researchers and experts to address the complex challenges posed by disinformation campaigns.
Bret Schafer shared insights into the sophisticated methods employed by malign actors to undermine democracies, including overt tactics like state-controlled media and covert strategies such as troll farms, hacking, and information laundering. Discussions highlighted tools like the Hamilton 2.0 Dashboard, which tracks disinformation narratives from sources like Russia, Iran, and China, enabling researchers to monitor propaganda efforts and their dissemination.
Key insights included the concept of "information laundering," where disinformation is passed through intermediaries to obscure its origin, enhancing its credibility and reach. Participants also examined how advances in artificial intelligence and tailored messaging amplify narratives and spread "information pollution."
The dialogue emphasized the need for a deepened transatlantic cooperation, enhanced public awareness, investment in digital literacy, and innovation in counter-disinformation tools. By bridging gaps between research and policy and fostering bipartisan support, democratic societies can better safeguard their institutions against evolving threats.
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with the expert on these critical issues.
Related Events
Workshop on Countering Foreign Disinformation
04.12.2024 / A Discussion with Bret Schafer
Transatlantic Talks #2
03.09.2024 / A Deep Dive into the US Presidential Elections
The EEAS perspective on Hybrid Threats
06.06.2024 / Discussion with Mindaugas LaĊĦas
European Security and the Future of EU-NATO Relations
27.05.2024 / Transatlantic Talks #1
