A state that promotes a policy of transparency protects itself from manipulation and propaganda. In the case of Russian propaganda, it infiltrates states that have weak points. The Russian Federation uses corruption, influencing certain politicians, uses the divergences within a society, uses social networks or supports divisionism, etc. Hence, hybrid wars are born. The statement belongs to Lithuanian Ambassador for Special Missions Eitvydas Bajarūnas, an expert in hybrid wars, IPN reports.
During a discussion in Vilnius, with a group of journalists from Chișinău, the expert provided the example of Ukraine, mentioning that – had this state promoted transparent policies – the influence of the Russian Federation wouldn’t have had any effect. According to him, hybrid wars are directly linked to corruption, since it allows for the bribing of politicians, for the promotion of one’s own interests and policies.
Eitvydas Bajarūnas mentioned that the geopolitical phenomenon persists, the Russian Federation having clear influence over Ukraine, the effects of which can also be felt in Moldova and in Lithuania. The interests of the European states, Lithuania included, do not imply an anti-Russian policy, but the promotion of state interests within the Eastern Partnership, the interests of Moldova, as well as those of the EU. Stopping propaganda in state like Ukraine or the Republic of Moldova represents a possibility to keep the influence of the Russian Federation away from the borders of the European Union.
The expert claims that even states in their highest stages of development haven’t tackled all of their existing issues, yet there are key elements that should be highlighted. Eradicating corruption is one of them. Likewise, it is extremely important to cultivate within a society resistance to phenomena such as contraband, manipulation, etc. For example, the Russian propaganda spreads certain central motifs, which are promoted even through animated movies or through national holiday concerts headlined by Russian artists. In that sense, what matters is for the population to be educated and able to discern manipulative messages.
The Ambassador at large stated that the Russian Federation has an interest in maintaining a spirit of instability within European states, including Lithuania, yet a well-informed society can generate the social resistance necessary. In his opinion, experts should discuss these subjects in public, including those concerning the risks of contraband. Younger generations, starting with school age, must be informed on this phenomenon as well. An important role is carried by the netizens, who often mobilize to uncover the so-called trolls, i.e. online manipulators.
On another subject, referring to the affairs between Lithuania and Moldova, Eitvydas Bajarūnas mentioned that these have always been friendly, and the Lithuanian state has continually offered consultancy and support. According to him, Lithuania is interested to bring Moldova closer to the European space and values. Even though this state seeks integration, it still allows for certain mistakes; what matters are the aspirations and the effort put into reform implementation, regardless of how complex and painstaking they can become.
In his opinion, the Republic of Moldova ought to fight corruption, an inherited issue that has grown deep roots. Laws and visits from foreign experts aren’t sufficient, concrete actions and a strong will are necessary. The ambassador considers that the current most pressing issue is the lack of a strong common will. According to him, the theft of one billion dollars out of the national banking system has also down-ranked Moldova by several positions in the top of international priorities. Most likely, as the Lithuanian diplomat mentioned, these are long term processes, referring to our countries’ long term priorities that should aim at societal stability, within our states and our regions.
