The Rise of Disinformation in Global Politics: Threats to Democracyand Security

Disinformation has become a powerful tool in global politics, posing significant threats to both democracy and security. The intentional spread of false information to deceive and manipulate has roots dating back to Soviet strategies, but in today’s digital era, it has taken on new, more dangerous forms. This commentary explores the rise of disinformation, examining how it has been used to undermine democratic institutions, weaken public trust in governments, and manipulate public opinion. 

In this commentary, BIPSS Research Assistant Saraf Wasima highlights the intersection of disinformation with cybersecurity threats and foreign state-sponsored campaigns, illustrating how nations like Russia and China use disinformation as a geopolitical weapon. She emphasizes the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to combat this global risk through policy innovation, media literacy, and technological solutions. As disinformation becomes an ever-greater challenge, global cooperation is essential to safeguard democratic institutions and maintain international security.