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Evolution of information warfare expert environment in Czechia
Čičmanec, Martin ; Střítecký, Vít (advisor) ; Ludvík, Jan (referee)
As the tensions between Russia and the West had grown, so had the intensity of hybrid warfare operations, such as Russian disinformation campaigns. These campaigns have contributed to the current polarization of societies not only in the USA, but also in many EU countries and have prompted Western societies to seek appropriate ways to defend themselves against information warfare. Over the last decade, a colourful community of experts developed, empowered to identify specific threats and propose solutions. This study explores how the growing securitization of disinformation affects the development of security expertise in Czechia. Sociological methods, social network analysis, and social capital were applied to uncover and analyze a network of security experts focused on information warfare. SNA allowed mapping both networks of crucial organizers and experts, their social relations, and professional backgrounds. The analyses showed ongoing dynamic development of the network characterized by growing complexity and fragmentation. However, the network is united in its stance on opposing pro-Russian influences. As the network developed, new topics and experts with professional backgrounds emerged. Nevertheless, think tanks remain recognized as both key experts and organizers, drawing their expertise...
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