Diverging Narratives Spread Through Social Media as Local Online Debates Intensify
The ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict has sparked a global information war that has now reached Singapore, with differing perspectives flooding social media, videos, and messaging platforms like Telegram. While the conflict persists on the ground, debates about its causes and justifications are being fought online. Some people in Singapore are actively sharing content that challenges mainstream narratives, often seeking to offer alternative views.
Jack Wong, a 61-year-old Singaporean, expressed his belief that mainstream media outlets, especially in the West, predominantly echo US foreign policy. While he does not condone Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, he feels that the portrayal of the war is often one-sided. “I want to provide a balanced view, so people can consider both sides,” Wong shared. His posts include videos offering alternative viewpoints on the war.
However, online commentators are facing backlash for their views, with many people hesitant to openly share their opinions due to the sensitive nature of the topic. Some even fear repercussions for expressing pro-Russian sentiments. One anonymous commentator questioned the authenticity of a viral video featuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in which he reassures citizens that he remains in Kyiv, raising doubts about the legitimacy of the footage.
This online division highlights the broader challenges faced by governments in shaping a singular narrative, especially in the age of cyberspace, where international conflicts are viewed and debated globally. Dr. Carol Soon, a senior research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, pointed out that the information war surrounding the Ukraine-Russia conflict underscores the complexity of maintaining a clear narrative in today’s digital landscape. Different media outlets, civil society groups, and communities worldwide interpret and reframe the war in varying ways, making it difficult to ascertain the truth.
Dr. Soon noted that the disinformation campaigns surrounding the war didn’t start overnight but have been building for years. Russia’s persistent tactics, which include claims about Ukraine planning to use chemical weapons or committing genocide, are well-documented, yet they still persist and resonate with certain audiences.
Discerning between genuine information and fake news has become increasingly difficult. Professor Chong Ja Ian, a political expert, emphasized that successful disinformation often contains elements of truth to lend it credibility. While maintaining skepticism and seeking independent verification are crucial, the lack of reliable fact-checking resources can make this process time-consuming and challenging for individuals. In regions where there is existing anti-Western sentiment, Russian and pro-Russian narratives may find more traction, including in Singapore.
As Singapore navigates this contested information environment, the absence of a direct stake in the conflict may lead to more carelessness in how people treat the information they receive, ultimately exacerbating the spread of conflicting narratives.
