Accession Number:

AD1084761

Title:

Russian Social Media Influence: Understanding Russian Propaganda in Eastern Europe

Descriptive Note:

[Technical Report, Final Report]

Corporate Author:

RAND Corporation

Personal Author(s):

• Helmus, Todd C.

Report Date:

2018-08-01

Pagination or Media Count:

9

Abstract:

Good morning, Chairman Burr, Vice Chairman Warner, and distinguished members of the committee. Thank you for the invitation to testify at this important hearing. Russia is engaged in an active, worldwide propaganda campaign. Information operations are a major part of Russias foreign policy and social media are one important element of Russias state-led activities. The RAND Corporation has been studying these activities today, I will share some lessons learned from one particular studyRussian Social Media Influence Understanding Russian Propaganda in Eastern Europethat examined Russias social media influence in Eastern Europe. Understanding activities in this region, which Russia considers its near abroad, will help advance the North Atlantic Treaty Organization NATO defense of the Baltics and also shed light on how to combat this issue around the globe. I will provide an overview of Russian propaganda activities, review our efforts to identify Russian propaganda on Twitter, and examine challenges confronting U.S. and European policymakers in the region. I will conclude with recommendations for countering the Russian propaganda threat.

Descriptors:

Subject Categories:

• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
• Government and Political Science

Distribution Statement:

[A, Approved For Public Release]