Bangladesh’s 2024 Elections Highlight Online Battles and AI Misinformation
Bangladesh’s 2024 elections have shed light on the online battles and AI-driven misinformation campaigns that are shaping political narratives and influencing public opinion. The recent elections have raised concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the limitations on political expression and dissent.
Despite Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina securing her fifth mandate, many believe that the election was a charade and a mockery of democracy. The government’s crackdown on opposition leaders and supporters, along with human rights abuses, has stifled competition and eliminated opposition, resulting in a one-sided low-turnout election.
In this climate of offline pressure, the internet has emerged as the main battlefield for political expression and shaping political narratives. However, draconian laws, internet shutdowns, misinformation campaigns fueled by AI, and dubious political ads have hampered the free flow of information and undermined the integrity of the electoral process.
Social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube have become crucial for political campaigns, especially for opposition parties facing offline obstacles. The ruling party has recognized the power of these platforms and has invested in training over 100,000 cyberwarriors to control the online space.
While social media has significantly intensified its influence on political campaigns since the 2018 elections, in-person interactions and traditional campaigning still remain important, particularly in rural areas. However, for those opposing the incumbent party or protesting against the electoral process, internet platforms have become crucial for voicing dissent.
Unfortunately, journalists, activists, and political opponents face harsh censorship and information blackouts on a regular basis. The government has actively cracked down on the free press, passing new laws that make it easier to censor and persecute critical voices. Disruptions to the internet have also been recorded during periods of political turmoil and elections, further limiting access to information.
AI-powered deepfakes have become a concern in Bangladesh’s political campaigns, although they are still at an experimental level. These deepfakes have been used to generate fake news, disinformation, and targeted attacks on opposition leaders. AI-generated videos have falsely accused US diplomats of interfering in elections and have spread fake news about opposition leaders’ views on geopolitical events.
The misuse of AI and the spread of misinformation in a false context pose significant risks to the electoral process and public opinion. Traditional debunking methods fall short in addressing the issue. Big tech companies need to recalibrate their approach in tackling false context, especially in regions like South Asia that represent critical democracies.
Looking ahead, online censorship and internet restrictions are expected to continue growing, as seen in countries like Pakistan. As the 2024 elections approach, more than half of the world’s population will be voting. It is crucial to address the challenges posed by populism, political polarization, and the manipulation of information for the sake of democracy.
In conclusion, Bangladesh’s 2024 elections have highlighted the influence of online battles and AI-driven misinformation campaigns. The erosion of democratic values, the limitations on political expression, and the spread of disinformation pose significant challenges to the electoral process. It is essential for governments, tech companies, and civil societies to collaborate in safeguarding the integrity of elections and protecting democratic values worldwide.
