The methods of content censorship during the Russia-Ukraine war and lessons for the Islamic Republic of Iran
Abstract
With the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, Western media prevented the Russian narrative of the conflict from being heard. Basic algorithms on social media platforms sanctioned Russian content, and Russian international media outlets were made inaccessible to audiences. Additionally, stringent measures were taken against alternative journalists by Western authorities. Other content that did reach audiences was often labeled with content warnings, signaling its alleged unreliability. Meanwhile, Russia adopted a strategy of filtering Western platforms and forcing Russians to migrate to Eastern alternatives such as TikTok. It also utilized overseas media to present its perspective on the war.
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Unprecedented Censorship and Content Suppression in the Ukraine War
During the Ukraine war, the West used several censorship methods to suppress the Russian narrative: restricting access to Russian media, persecuting and discrediting alternative journalists, direct content removal, algorithmic censorship that hides Russian content, and labeling to undermine trust in such materials. These actions have significantly limited Russia’s perspective in the media space.
Russia’s Activities Against Western Censorship
Russia counters Western censorship by filtering Western social media domestically to shift Russian audiences to Eastern platforms like TikTok. Internationally, Russian media uses alternative networks such as Telegram, Rumble, and Gab to share its narrative with European and American audiences, also engaging in covert efforts to strengthen its message during the Ukraine war.
Strategic Suggestions to Counter Censorship During War
To counter censorship during war, it is suggested to form a news alliance among Eastern countries to provide alternative narratives and promote media diversity to slow Western censorship. Tactically, creating many small media outlets targeting specific Western groups, focusing on alternative social platforms, strengthening media personalities, and encouraging migration to Eastern social networks can help bypass censorship and protect public opinion.
This study was conducted at Iranian Council for Defending the Truth by Mohammad Sajad Bateni in 2022.
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