Washington: The United States plans to recruit social media influencers and university professors to counter foreign propaganda on X, formerly Twitter, as part of a new strategy to shape global narratives amid rising geopolitical tensions.
A State Department memo, first reported by The Intercept, outlines a $3 million pilot called the “Coalition for a Free Internet.” It aims to identify and amplify voices that promote US policies and counter state-backed disinformation from countries like China, Russia, and Iran. The program targets X, where Elon Musk’s ownership has reduced content moderation.
Influencers with 100,000+ followers in key regions will get training and funding to create content highlighting American values, democracy, and economic opportunities. Academics will produce “credible” analyses for amplification.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed the initiative. “Public diplomacy evolves with platforms. We engage credible voices to counter deliberate lies that harm security and alliances,” he said.
Critics call it astroturfing. “Paying influencers to push government lines blurs journalism and propaganda,” said digital rights expert Dr. Priya Patel. Free speech groups worry about undisclosed payments violating platform rules.
The move follows US accusations of foreign meddling on X, including Russian bots during elections and Chinese campaigns on Taiwan. X’s algorithm changes amplified some state media, prompting Western backlash.
Experts see pros and cons. “Traditional diplomacy needs digital savvy, but authenticity matters—forced narratives backfire,” noted media analyst Rajiv Singh.
Global reactions vary. India watches closely, balancing US ties with domestic content rules. “Influencer partnerships work for brands; governments risk backlash,” said Hyderabad digital marketer Neha Rao.
X CEO Linda Yaccarino welcomed “diverse viewpoints” but stressed transparency rules.
America’s influencer diplomacy marks a new front in information wars, testing social media’s role in shaping international opinion.
