Submission to the select committee on foreign interference through social media

Abstract

<p>I am most grateful for the opportunity to provide this submission to the Select Committee on Foreign Interference through Social Media, tasked to inquire into and report on the risk posed to Australia's democracy by foreign interference through social media. I note that a similar Committee was raised three years ago, but that significant geo-political shifts, as well as technological advances, require novel and bold approaches to countering one of the most potent grey zone tactics available to our adversaries today. In the interests of full disclosure, I must note that I have served for some years as a Australian Army Legal Officer and worked within the Directorate of Operations and International Law and Maritime Border Command. Both these postings have some intersection with foreign interference operations. However, I make this submission solely in my capacity as an academic who has researched, written and taught on foreign interference. These views do not reflect any affiliated organisation.</p>