Dangerous Channels, led by Intellectum Research, explores how online misinformation and hate speech distort Myanmar’s social and political landscape. (January 2024)
By Intellectum Research Consortium.
MYANMAR DIGITAL RESEARCH 01
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Abstract
This study aims to raise awareness about the pernicious patterns of misinformation, malinformation, and hate speech that threaten Myanmar’s digital and sociopolitical landscape. It focuses on the spread of mis/disinformation and “malinformation” on pro-regime Telegram channels in Myanmar after the coup in 2021. Beyond posing a threat to digital safety and security for pro-democracy groups, these channels have alarming instances of hate speech and dangerous speech targeting pro-democracy and anti-regime groups and accounts. This research employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis along with one-on-one key informant interviews. In the wake of the 2021 coup, the pro-military regime or SAC (State Administration Council) quickly shifted its primary information channel from Facebook to alternate platforms, including Telegram, highlighting the adaptability of disinformation networks. Responding to this shift, the research analyzed data from five Telegram channels, with anonymization measures in place to protect personal information from other Telegram users. The
research faced limitations in verifying incidents in areas with limited internet connectivity, and some pro-regime channels were removed during the process. Furthermore, language barriers hinder insights into Telegram content featuring non-Burmese speakers. The findings reveal that malinformation is the dominant category on the pro-regime channels, at about 30% of analyzed content. This malinformation often combines factual information with selective narratives and portrays one-sided accusations. The Telegram channels frequently advocate for retaliatory military action while omitting or denying certain events. Doxing incidents are prevalent, with the findings revealing 16 documented cases of Telegram doxing resulting in arrests. Interviews with fact-checkers and journalists shed light on the motivations behind spreading misinformation and the tactics employed by SAC. The impact of mis/disinformation is evident in community trust, the economy, and social cohesion, leading to changes in public opinion. Doxing incidents have wide-ranging effects, from loss of property to loss of life and citizenship. Improving digital literacy, fact-checking, and monitoring efforts are essential to mitigate these issues. Telegram also needs to take part in greater responsibility by implementing policies on mis/disinformation and hateful malinformation.
Keywords: misinformation, disinformation, malinformation, hate speech, telegram, 2021 coup, Myanmar,
doxing, digital security, digital safety
This Myanmar Digital Research paper was produced for the Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM) initiative, with the aid of a grant from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and with support from The SecDev Foundation. Views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of either organization.
Over the next two years, twenty papers in the Myanmar Digital Research series will have researchers within and in the Myanmar diaspora exploring how the digital world is shaping their social, political and economic crisis, bringing new insights into issues facing Myanmar citizens. See below for others available now.