In a series of in-depth interviews conducted "face to face" with media and propaganda experts by CABAR, a revealing exploration into the nature of propaganda employed by major powers in Tajikistan has come to light.
The study underscores the geopolitical and geo-economic significance of Central Asia, prompting great powers to focus their attention on the region. The findings shed light on the distinct propaganda strategies deployed by countries like Russia, the USA, China, Iran, Turkey, India, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Afghanistan.
"Big powers use absolutely every known and unknown propaganda tool to influence the perception of an entire category of the population. Not only big powers but also a variety of countries are trying to influence people’s perceptions through propaganda and promote their agenda within Tajikistan," the report highlights.
Aggressive Tactics of Big Powers:
Russia: Russian propaganda emerges as the most aggressive, with unprecedented financial investments pouring into media promotion. Beyond traditional channels, Russia has expanded its reach into unofficial platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Experts note a significant effort to influence public opinion by financing local media and offering various incentives to journalists.
China: Employing soft power, China tailors its propaganda primarily for domestic audiences. In Central Asia, China strategically avoids direct contact with media and journalists, opting instead to promote its agenda through officials loyal to the Chinese government.
Turkey: Turkish propaganda, focused on minimizing negative content related to its treatment of the opposition, relies on indirect communication. Supplying equipment through support organizations, Turkey ensures a favorable narrative, steering clear of discussions about its actions in grain transactions or support for different geopolitical interests.
West (America and the EU): Employing subtle, almost imperceptible, soft propaganda, the West manifests its influence in areas like cinema, music, literature, and social networks. Financial aid and developmental support are crucial tools, making it challenging for media outlets to critique Western actions despite receiving grants.
Iran: Drawing on commonalities in history, culture, and language, Iran seeks to maintain influence through propaganda targeted at Tajikistan. The message includes elements of anti-Semitism and delegitimization of the West, emphasizing the goal of increasing influence abroad.
India: India's propaganda approach involves film, theater, music, and cultural exchange programs. Loyal journalists play a key role in promoting India's territorial interests subtly through the media.
Uzbekistan: Although not a major power, Uzbekistan's internal propaganda exerts a significant influence in Tajikistan. Reforms and shared history contribute to the admiration of Uzbekistan's government among Tajikistan residents.
Impact of Propaganda in Central Asia:
Experts unanimously assert the extensive influence of propaganda on public perception, identifying factors such as low education, lack of critical thinking, language barriers, and economic conditions as contributors to the pervasive nature of propaganda.
"The media are one of the most important channels for disseminating propaganda and play an important role in the political life of the country."
Challenges in Combating Propaganda:
Despite the awareness of propaganda's influence, experts struggle to identify effective methods to counter it in Central Asia. Internal propaganda supporting existing governments often impedes efforts to promote critical thinking and filter information.
Media's Role and Consequences of Propaganda:
Experts highlight the media's crucial role as a primary channel for disseminating propaganda. However, they note that financial motivations are not the sole reason for the media's role in spreading propaganda, pointing to factors such as the lack of fact-checking, editorial policies, and journalistic ethics.
Youth's Perception and Content Consumption:
The study also delves into the youth's awareness of propaganda's effects, revealing a predominant reliance on social networks and a lack of critical analysis. The majority of young individuals express a preference for content in Tajik and Russian, with limited exposure to alternative sources in English, Persian, or Chinese.
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