Pillars of Russia's Disinformation and Propaganda Ecosystem
The Department of State report "GEC Special Report: Pillars of Russia’s Disinformation and Propaganda Ecosystem" was released in August 2020:[1]
Summary
The U.S. Department of State’s 2020 report, "Pillars of Russia's Disinformation and Propaganda Ecosystem", outlines Russia’s complex strategy to spread disinformation and propaganda worldwide, as analyzed by the Global Engagement Center. It identifies five key pillars: official government communications, where Kremlin leaders like Vladimir Putin push misleading narratives; state-funded media like RT and Sputnik, which amplify pro-Kremlin messaging; proxy websites such as Strategic Culture Foundation and Global Research, which obscure Russian ties while spreading false narratives; weaponized social media, using bots and trolls to manipulate discourse; and cyber-enabled disinformation, including hacking to bolster propaganda efforts.
The report emphasizes how these pillars create a "media multiplier effect," amplifying divisive narratives on topics like COVID-19, Ukraine, and U.S. politics to undermine trust in democratic institutions. By profiling specific outlets and individuals, it seeks to expose Russia’s tactics, urging governments, civil society, and tech platforms to counter disinformation through transparency, media literacy, and international cooperation, while highlighting the ecosystem’s adaptability and global influence.
Names Mentioned in Report
Individuals
Organizations
- Global Engagement Center (GEC)
- Russia Today (RT)
- Workers World Party (WWP)
- Shaltay Boltay (aka Anonymous International)