Bellingcat's Eliot Higgins | "Russian Propaganda is Ridiculous" (Part 2)

TL;DR

Russia continues to use disinformation tactics, despite the rapid debunking of their claims, highlighting the predictable nature of their actions.

Transcript

thank you mentioned their Russia Russian relationship with the truth which is um kind of extraordinary and predictable and if it wasn't so tragic it would almost be a joke um it comes across in it you know in here the sort of disinformation and apparatus The kremlin's Playbook you know and and what you describe what you describe as being used throu... Read More

Key Insights

• 😒 Russia's use of disinformation follows a predictable pattern outlined in the Kremlin's Playbook.
• 🪡 Rapid debunking of Russian claims has become more effective, highlighting the need for improved disinformation tactics.
• ❓ Bellingcat's investigations have had a significant impact in uncovering evidence for accountability purposes.
• 💦 The psychological toll of working with graphic content requires proactive measures to mitigate trauma and burnout.
• ❓ Concerns about Bellingcat's impartiality stem from a misconception of their focus on evidence collection for accountability purposes.
• 🥶 Civil society and free speech are facing a crackdown in Russia, with organizations being labeled as foreign agents and media being shut down.
• 💍 The threat of a potential internet shutdown in Russia emphasizes the importance of supporting and engaging with Russian voices outside the country.

Questions & Answers

Q: How effective are deepfakes in deceiving people?

Deepfakes are not effective as evidence due to various factors, such as the need for authentication, contextual details, and the capacity of online communities to quickly detect and debunk them. Additionally, technological advancements can aid in identifying deepfakes.

Q: What has been the most rewarding case for Bellingcat?

Bellingcat's work on MH17 and the poisonings have been highly impactful. The MH17 investigation brought together the open source and accountability communities, while exposing the poisonings has shed light on Russia's covert operations.

Q: How do you address concerns about impartiality and political agendas?

Bellingcat's primary focus is on collecting evidence for accountability purposes, rather than traditional journalism. While they work on a wide range of topics, their extensive coverage of Russia's actions often leads to misconceptions. Bellingcat aims to provide fair and accurate information while utilizing evidence for legal action and international accountability efforts.

Q: How does Bellingcat deal with the psychological impact of working with graphic content?

Bellingcat implements trauma risk management programs and ensures staff members have access to psychologists for support. They also share guides and information on trauma mitigation with their online community. Taking breaks and prioritizing self-care is encouraged to prevent burnout and potential obsession with the content.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Russia's disinformation tactics, outlined in the Kremlin's Playbook, are once again being used in the conflict with Ukraine.

• Despite clear evidence to the contrary, Russia continues to make debunked claims at the UN Security Council.

• Bellingcat founder, Eliot Higgins, discusses the psychological impact and trauma experienced by his team and addresses concerns of impartiality.