Unveiling the Recent Operations: Royal Thai Army's Online Information Influencing Activities
Insights into the Matter
Military denies deployment of online 'Influence Operations' campaigns
The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has staunchly denied executing online military-styled information-manipulating operations (IO) in the present government's reign [1][3][4]. However, as per Maj. Gen. Winthai Suwaree, their role primarily revolves around rectifying misinformation peddled across social media [1][4]. Historically, though, allegations point towards the involvement of the RTA in such tactics, especially during the coup regime led by Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha [1][2][4]. Remnants of these operations have allegedly persisted even under the current civilian government, but with an alleged increase in aggression [1][4].
IO Allegations and Concerns
Critics such as Rangsiman Rome have expressed doubts about the army's denial, citing instances where IO tactics were employed against academics, activists, and politicians during the coup regime [1][2][4].rome has further underscored the continuing use of these tactics under the civilian-led government, arguing that they have merely escalated [1][4].
The Army's Perspective
The RTA's stance is to correct misinformation to preserve public understanding. However, critics argue that funding these operations could sow discord among the populace, running counter to the military's mission of promoting national unity [4]. The RTA's spokesperson maintains that these actions are transparent and legal tools such as the Computer Crime Act are employed to tackle inappropriate content [4].
Opposition and Concerns Expressed
The opposition voices, including Rangsiman, vehemently oppose the use of IO tactics in a domestic context. They posit that while such tactics may be justified during international military conflicts, using them against fellow citizens compromises national security and impedes efforts to combat genuine threats like drug trafficking [4]. The critics stress that these operations target not only opposition parties but also figures within the government, escalating internal divisions [1][4].
Final Thoughts
Although the RTA refutes the accusations of conducting military-style IO, evidence hints towards continued involvement in coordinated information operations. The persisting debate underlines the necessity for transparency and accountability in online activities undertaken by government agencies, ensuring the promotion of national security and unity.
- Critics, such as Rangsiman Rome, have especially pointed towards the Royal Thai Army's (RTA) involvement in IO activities during the general-news and politics sectors, not just crime-and-justice issues.
- The RTA, claiming to rectify misinformation, has faced criticism for funding IO tactics, which allegedly spread Thai misinformation and could potentially sow discord among civilians, a concern that contradicts the military's mission for national unity.
- IO activities, whether employed during the coup regime or under the current civilian government, have drawn attention from civilian critics and opposition. For instance, Rangsiman has expressed concerns over the increased aggression in IO tactics even against government figures.
- Despite continuous denial by the RTA, it is the civilian population who have been a significant focus of IO activity, with critics arguing that misinformation campaigns can jeopardize national security and obstruct efforts to combat genuine issues like drug trafficking and increase internal divisions.
