Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), situated at the crossroads of global power struggles, has become a critical battleground for such tactics employed by foreign and domestic actors. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are coming under increasing pressure from various actors using disinformation as a tool to silence them or undermine their credibility.
To counter this threat effectively, we need to first understand the current trends, tactics and know the actors. Therefore, TechSoup, in collaboration with our Digital Activism Program Partners (PDCS, Sdruzeni VIA, Metamorphosis Foundation, Funky Citizens, CRI and BCME) and analysts from Gerulata, is proud to present two comparative reports shedding light on the trends, tactics and actors:
These comprehensive studies reveal the evolving strategies of disinformation actors and provide actionable insights for CSOs and other stakeholders committed to increasing societal resilience.
Why Are These Reports Crucial for CSOs?
Both reports underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to counter disinformation. The findings explore how coordinated campaigns manipulate public discourse, particularly during events such as elections or crises.
In the CEE Disinformation Trends 2024, the focus is on 13 countries from the Baltics, the Black Sea, the Visegrad Group, and the Western Balkans. It highlights how foreign and domestic actors exploit societal divisions, erode trust in Western alliances like NATO and the EU, and manipulate perceptions of the war in Ukraine. This report reveals the specific narratives used to polarize communities, capitalizing on ethnic tensions and abusing polarizing issues such as migration and gender equality.
Meanwhile, Propaganda Pushers takes a closer look at how narratives about "the West" circulate across Southeast Europe, focusing on the interplay of anti-Western sentiment and pro-Russian propaganda. It uncovers sophisticated online networks that transcend national borders, amplifying messages designed to undermine faith in democracy, sovereignty, and cultural identity.
These reports are not academic studies analyzing the issue from an ivory tower. They are practical guides for CSOs navigating the complex and often hostile information landscape and provide a roadmap for recognizing disinformation as a force to reckon with, building community resilience, and fostering collaboration.
What You’ll Learn:
Thematic and Regional Insights
The CEE Disinformation Trends 2024 report offers a detailed analysis of eight thematic clusters, including the portrayal of Western alliances, peace narratives (in the context of war in Ukraine), economic crises, and societal issues like LGBTI+ and gender rights. It provides a comparative perspective on how these themes manifest in disinformation campaigns across different countries. For example, the Baltic states are targeted with narratives exploiting Soviet-era grievances and ethnic divisions, while Black Sea countries like Bulgaria and Moldova face disinformation that ties EU sanctions to economic instability.
In contrast, Propaganda Pushers explores how anti-Western narratives leverage cultural identity and sovereignty concerns to gain traction. Across countries like Moldova and Bulgaria, Western alliances are portrayed as neo-colonial powers eroding local traditions. These narratives often align with pro-Russian messaging, framing Russia as a cultural ally and defender against Western "aggression."
The Role of Elections and Domestic Politics
A recurring theme in both reports is the exploitation of election cycles. Disinformation campaigns intensify around elections, using polarization to manipulate public opinion. The CEE Disinformation Trends 2024 report documents how European Parliamentary elections in 2024 became a focal point for disinformation, intertwining domestic political crises with foreign narratives. Similarly, Propaganda Pushers highlights how narratives about Western interference in national elections serve to delegitimize democratic processes and foster mistrust.
Networks and Digital Amplification
The reports emphasize the role of social media in disseminating disinformation. Platforms such as Telegram, TikTok, and Facebook are central to these campaigns, often driven by a small but influential group of actors. Propaganda Pushers maps out these networks, showcasing how linguistic communities adapt and amplify narratives across borders. For example, Romanian and Moldovan networks demonstrate how shared language creates overlapping digital ecosystems, while Serbian online communities amplify Russian narratives through regional platforms.
Tailored Tactics and Local Vulnerabilities
Disinformation is not a one-size-fits-all strategy. The CEE Disinformation Trends 2024 report identifies region-specific approaches, from anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric in the Visegrad Group to the portrayal of NATO as a provocateur in the Baltics. These localized tactics exploit cultural, historical, and political vulnerabilities to maximize impact.
Equipping Civil Society for Action
These reports are essential tools for CSOs working to combat disinformation. They provide not only an understanding of the problem but also concrete steps to address it. CSOs play a pivotal role as the first line of defense against disinformation. However, they face increasing challenges, from smear campaigns to legal harassment. These reports emphasize the importance of strengthening civil society networks, collaborating across borders, and addressing the root psychological and cultural factors that make societies susceptible to disinformation.
Key recommendations stemming from both reports:
Strengthen Networks to Combat Disinformation
CSOs should build robust internal and external networks to counter disinformation effectively. Collaboration within civil society and with international allies (e.g., TechSoup) enhances counter-narratives and public trust.
Prioritize Early Planning and Digital Defense
CSOs must prepare for disinformation surges around key events like elections. Real-time tracking tools and social media monitoring can help identify threats early. Enhanced cybersecurity and staff training on digital hygiene are essential for mitigating cyber risks.
Emphasize Strategic Communication
Proactive storytelling aligned with local values and success stories fosters trust and counters disinformation. Narratives highlighting unity and resilience can bridge divisions and inspire confidence in civil society.
Tailor Counter-Narratives to Local Contexts
Efforts to counter disinformation narratives must be country-specific, addressing local history, concerns, and perspectives. Communication should acknowledge and respect legitimate fears about preserving independence and cultural identity.
Diversify Funding for Stability
To remain independent amidst financial attacks, CSOs should diversify funding sources through crowdfunding and community support. These strategies help safeguard operations against coercion and ensure sustainability.
What Next?
Disinformation is not a distant threat—it is an active force shaping the future of democracy and our societies in CEE. By understanding its mechanisms and strategies, CSOs can develop effective countermeasures and safeguard the values of openness, inclusivity, and trust.
Join us in confronting the disinformation head-on. Together, we can empower communities to resist online manipulation.
1. Download the Reports Now:
Access the CEE Disinformation Trends 2024 Report
2. Be inspired by our Guide on Digital Tools for Countering Disinformation
3. Boost your skillset by taking free Countering Disinformation online course
Be informed. Take action. Build resilience.
The Mapping Reports have been created as a part of TechSoup's Digital Activism Program - a global initiative empowering civil society actors by providing support, learning opportunities, connections, and tools to enhance digital resilience.