Masters of Manipulation
A closer look at authoritarian propaganda in Russia and Turkey
In a world increasingly dominated by authoritarian narratives, a new publication "Masters of Manipulation: Authoritarian Propaganda in Russia and Turkey” zooms in on the intricate web of propaganda in Russia and Turkey.
Supported by the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung (FNF) and produced by Journalists and Lawyers for Free Speech (Journalisten und Anwälte für Meinungsfreiheit (JAM) e.V.). It brings together insights from Russian and Turkish academics and journalists including Ali Çelikkan, Andrey Zhvirblis, Can Ertuna, Evgeniy Shtorn, Gökçer Tahincioğlu, Olga Romanova, Onur Öncü, Roman Zholud, and Sibel Yükler.
Under the editorial direction of JAM’s Evin Barış Altıntaş, these contributors unravel the sophisticated techniques employed by authoritarian leaders to manipulate media and public perception.
The publication begins with an in-depth historical perspective by Roman Zholud, tracing the evolution of propaganda from Soviet-era practices to contemporary strategies in Russia. In Turkey, the narrative is equally compelling, detailing the transformation of media under the AKP's rule. Gökçer Tahincioğlu offers a detailed examination of the "pool media" phenomenon, and explores how financial power is wielded to suppress dissent and promote ideological conformity.
A crucial part of this publication focuses on the plight of LGBTQ communities in both countries. Evgeniy Shtorn and Sibel Yükler present a vivid account of how authoritarian regimes exploit conservative sentiments and historical myths to marginalize and persecute these communities. Their contributions underscore the human cost of propaganda and the importance of safeguarding minority rights.
Can journalistic verification be our beacon of hope in the fight against misinformation? Andrey Zhvirblis and Can Ertuna explore the challenges and successes of independent media in Russia and Turkey, emphasizing the vital role of fact-checking and media literacy in countering state-sponsored falsehoods.
Propaganda targeting Turkish and Russian diaspora in Germany
Ali Çelikkan and Onur Öncü provide compelling insights into the impact of propaganda on diaspora communities and the role of exiled media in combating authoritarian narratives. Çelikkan delves into the media habits of Turkish expatriates and how they are influenced by both Turkish state media and local German media, while Öncü explores the innovative strategies employed by exiled journalists to reach audiences in Turkey despite significant risks and obstacles.
The final chapters, authored by Olga Romanova and Roman Zholud, shift the focus to the Russian diaspora in Germany. Their pieces of writing reveal the impact of Kremlin propaganda on Russian-speaking communities abroad and the crucial role of exiled media in providing alternative perspectives.
"Masters of Manipulation" is an important reminder as well as a call to action. Policymakers, civil society organizations and the international community are urged to support free media and uphold democratic values. By understanding the tactics of authoritarian propaganda, we hope that the work will be a strong contribution to promoting a resilient, informed society.
