Description

EXAMINING MEDIA PROPAGANDA DURING CONFLICT AND WARS: A STUDY OF SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT OF RESSIAN-UKRAIN WAR.

ABSTRACT

This study explores the profound impact of social media propaganda on public perception and international opinion during the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative content analysis of social media posts and qualitative interviews with experts, the research investigates the prevalence, techniques, and effectiveness of propaganda employed by both Russian and Ukrainian actors. By analyzing social media platforms such as Twitter and Telegram, the study examines how these digital spaces have become battlegrounds for information warfare, where narratives are actively shaped and contested. The findings reveal that disinformation, fake news, and memes are the most commonly used techniques, with significant consequences for both domestic and global audiences. Quantitative data indicates that 75% of survey respondents frequently encounter propaganda, while 90% agree that social media-driven narratives have a profound influence on international perceptions of the conflict. In-depth interviews with political analysts, journalists, and social media strategists reveal the strategic use of emotional appeals, oversimplified narratives, and disinformation campaigns to manipulate public sentiment and shape the international diplomatic discourse surrounding the war. The research is grounded in the Propaganda Model (Herman & Chomsky, 1988) and Framing Theory (Entman, 1993), offering a theoretical framework for understanding how state and non-state actors utilize social media to control the narrative and garner international support. This study highlights the growing role of social media in modern conflicts, particularly in shaping global geopolitical dynamics, and underscores the need for more effective countermeasures to combat the spread of misinformation. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for combating propaganda, including the implementation of media literacy programs, enhanced AI-driven content moderation, and the establishment of international regulatory frameworks to mitigate the influence of digital misinformation on global public opinion.