PROPAGANDA, DISINFORMATION, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION – HOW TO IMPROVE COOPERATION IN CEE REGION?

Abstract

A paper deals with possibilities and opportunities for cooperation in Central and Eastern European region in the field of information security with particular emphasis on media influenced by Russia. My point of departure is that the information threats to societal security is external and they have relevant impact on the sustainability, conditions for evolution, of traditional patterns of language, culture and religious and ethnic identity, custom and values. An information crisis in the Baltic states results from the process of manipulation and disinformation campaign against the Russian-speaking residents. The V4 states including Poland do not display a numerous Russian-speaking audience, thus Russian propaganda here is facilitated by local pro-Russian media. This paper unveils it is necessary to develop effective offensive procedures to fight propaganda in the media and promote democratic values. States should strive to create an open, pluralistic information environment. Such strategies should be realized by both public and private sectors as well as the civil sector so as to cooperate in information complementation and exchange. Dealing with the contemporary challenges should include prevention, community management, social media management, psychosocial support and legal measures. Restoration of confidence in the media and development of professional journalism are essential. Additionally, the lack of new media literacy skills, together with the combination of populism and anti-liberal narratives, will increase its vulnerabilities to more risks than information security.