Episode 176: How Russia Capitalises on Crises, featuring Stepan Stepanenko

In this compelling episode of The International Risk Podcast, host Dominic Bowen engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Stepan Stepanenko, a leading expert on Eastern European affairs, international security, and disinformation strategies. Dr. Stepanenko serves as the Director of Forward Strategy Limited and Director of Research at the Forum for Foreign Relations, bringing invaluable expertise to a discussion that sheds light on the alarming ways Russia capitalizes on global crises.

The episode delves into Russia’s sophisticated use of foreign interference and disinformation campaigns, focusing on how the Kremlin exploits social tensions and unrest to destabilize Western democracies. A key example discussed is the recent Southport riots in the UK, where Russia is alleged to have manipulated public sentiment through social media, amplifying discord to create societal rifts. Dr. Stepanenko dissects how these efforts are part of a larger strategy aimed at undermining Western political systems and fostering instability.

Listeners are provided with a thorough analysis of the broader implications of Russian interference, from its impact on public opinion to the long-term threats posed to global stability. The conversation addresses the mechanics of disinformation campaigns, examining how social media platforms play an integral role in the rapid spread of false narratives and misinformation. Dr. Stepanenko highlights how ethnic, social, and religious tensions within Western societies are often the target of such foreign influence operations, with Russia actively seeking to exploit these fault lines to weaken democratic institutions.

Key topics explored in the episode include:

  • The mechanics of Russian disinformation campaigns and influence operations.
  • How social media facilitates the spread of false narratives and foreign interference.
  • The exploitation of ethnic and religious tensions in Western democracies.
  • The global implications of such interference on international relations and stability.
  • Strategies for building resilience and countering foreign meddling in domestic affairs.

Dr. Stepanenko’s personal experience of being sanctioned by Russia adds a unique dimension to the discussion, offering listeners an insider’s perspective on the real-world consequences faced by those challenging the Kremlin’s influence. His insights into countering these threats underscore the urgency of building resilience within democratic institutions to withstand foreign interference.

This episode is essential listening for policymakers, security professionals, and anyone concerned with the growing threat of information warfare and the manipulation of social unrest. Dr. Stepanenko’s expertise, combined with Dominic Bowen’s insightful questions, provides a comprehensive understanding of the risks posed by foreign actors in today’s interconnected and vulnerable world.

Tune in to arm yourself with the knowledge necessary to recognize and combat these evolving threats, gaining a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play in modern geopolitics and international risk management.

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