Mapping the spread of Russian and Chinese contents on the French-speaking African web

Cognitive Security: Facing Cognitive Operations in Hybrid Warfare1

“…(Limonier and Laruelle, 2021) The result of this spectacular progression of Russian vectors of influence in Africa is a full-scale attack on the Western presence (especially the French) on the continent and, in particular, on the Barkhane military operation. (Douzet et al, 2021) In conclusion, it appears that the real threat facing Westerners in the field of cognitive warfare is not related to research programs aimed at 'hacking the brains' of individuals through biotechnology and neuroscience processes. Russia's actions in the digital space are part of a very classic policy of influence, but carried out with significant means, a global approach, a constant strategy and adaptation to the local context.…”

Global Chinese media and a decade of change

“…Over the years, as the breadth and depth of China's mediated engagements with the world have grown, so has the interest in measuring their impact and influence (e.g., on content, on journalistic values, on audiences' opinions, etc.). This transformation is reflected in some of the terminology used to describe the phenomenon: what used to be discussions around soft power, public diplomacy and media flows (Chang and Lin, 2014) are increasingly being framed in terms of influence operations, disinformation and competition over narratives (see, e.g., Douzet et al, 2021).…”