The role of media as a source of information and a facilitator of discussion is crucial. We still trust in the information of our loved ones and our own authorities, but we increasingly live in a world where we can be controlled without always even realising it.
Cross-border influence is a complex phenomenon that requires extensive cooperation between different actors. In an ideal world, governments, NGOs, media and technology companies work together.
They would create more effective ways to combat disinformation and build an open but safe digital environment.
The economic interests that influence our media environment already override pure transmission of information, and the rules and the solutions designed to protect consumers, are not the same everywhere.
Data is power
Cross-border influence has risen to be a phenomenon in global politics and media. Elon Musk, the Wagner group and TikTok are examples of actors seeking to influence across national borders through different means and with different objectives.
Musk is using his vast wealth and social media clout to help far-right and populist movements across Europe. He publicly supports the AfD-party in Germany and Reform UK in the UK and is a strong critic of their current governments. Musk’s activities have raised concerns that a single billionaire can exert significant influence over domestic politics and election campaigns.
The Wagner Group, on the other hand, represents Russia’s efforts to expand its influence in the so-called Global South, particularly in Africa. Although the financier Yevgeny Prigozhin died in 2023, the operation has continued under the auspices of the Russian Ministry of Defence. Wagner provides military support and training to several African countries in exchange for rights to exploit natural resources. The group has also been actively involved in disinformation campaigns and influencing local politics.
TikTok contributes to China’s growing digital influence. ByteDance who owns the app, has raised concerns about its possible links to the Chinese regime and its ability to collect and exploit user data. Several countries have banned the use of TikTok on government devices, and the US is considering a complete ban on the app. TikTok has also played a key role in spreading disinformation, for example in the context of the war in Ukraine and the conflicts in the Middle East.
People are exploited too. Russia and China are actively trying to influence their own citizens abroad.
Russia uses state media such as RT and Sputnikas well as social media influencers, to spread its narrative and reinforce nationalist thinking among Russians abroad.
According to Amnesty’s report, the authorities are threatening family members living in China because of students’ activism abroad. China is also using social media through expatriates to spread its view of world events.
Civil society must be aware of the threats
Responding to the phenomena of hostile influence is essential to protect democracy and national security.
States have taken various measures, such as tightening controls on foreign funding, developing the fight against disinformation and increasing media literacy. The EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) aims to impose stricter rules on online platforms and combat harmful content.
At the same time, it is important to uphold freedom of expression and open communication, which are cornerstones of a democratic society.
Vikes supports diversity in journalism
The Foundation for Communication and Development, Vikes,founded by Finnish journalists, can help meeting these challenges by promoting diverse and responsible journalism in Finland and in developing countries.
In Finland, Vikes provides training for journalists with migratory backgrounds in identifying and fact-checking disinformation and supports journalists’ professional development.
The Foundation can also promote media diversity.
This broadens views on the influential actors in the world, while improving the voice of minority groups in the media and creating networks between underrepresented groups. This supports local civil society and media diversity globally.
Vikes Board Chairman
Jarmo Koponen
