In the run-up to the regional, federal, and European elections in Belgium on 9 June, an analysis by the intelligence and security services shows that disinformation is a real threat, reports the Crisis Center (NCCN) on Thursday.
The intelligence and security services noticed the emergence for the last few weeks of specific narratives linked to the elections.
Currently, the main narrative is about "stolen elections," which calls into question the voting process and the sound organisation of the elections – suggesting fraud. This narrative is particularly evident in the context of the European elections.
Regarding the Belgian federal elections, it is primarily the electoral system and polarising topics that are called into question. Nevertheless, the volume of disinformation in this context is "much lower" than that seen in the context of the European elections, notes NCCN.
Planting seeds of doubt
The analysis reveals that disinformation campaigns are often aimed at sowing doubt within the population. As a result, it becomes more difficult to distinguish between facts and opinions, and between correct and incorrect information.
Forming an opinion based on verified facts can then become a headache for voters. The underlying objective is to "destabilise our society in order to weaken democracy," says the press release.
Intelligence and security services also highlight an increase in the "complexity of the dissemination of disinformation."
Whereas five years ago, Facebook and X (Twitter) were the main channels used to spread misleading information, there are now many more. What is more, the content is not always moderated by the platforms themselves. For example, on Telegram, every user can publish freely and without control.
Artificial intelligence (AI), algorithms, bots, and human actors are some of the main means used to spread and boost misinformation.
To ensure that the elections run smoothly, the authorities take security measures before, during, and after the elections.
For example, as well as being secure, voting computers undergo extensive testing. On election day, these computers are completely cut off from the Internet and are not connected to each other under any circumstances so as to avoid any interference.
Paper ballot papers are also subject to a number of security measures, such as sealing and watermarking. NCCN reminds citizens to remain critical when dealing with online information, especially when it seems questionable.
