The Global Engagement Centre (GEC), a unit within the U.S. State Department, has emerged as a pivotal entity in the fight against foreign disinformation, particularly in regions like Asia where information warfare poses significant challenges.
Established to counter propaganda from foreign adversaries, the GEC has been instrumental in identifying and exposing disinformation campaigns orchestrated by nations such as China and Russia.
In Asia, the GEC has focused on countering narratives that undermine democratic institutions, sow discord among allies and distort perceptions of U.S. policies. China, for instance, has been prolific in disseminating state-sponsored narratives that promote its geopolitical interests, often at the expense of neighbouring countries' sovereignty and regional stability. The GEC's efforts have included debunking false claims, amplifying factual information and collaborating with local partners to enhance resilience against disinformation. A notable aspect of the GEC's work in Asia involves partnerships with regional governments and civil society organisations.