Description: The Chinese Communist Party has used a so – called unified front tactics to leverage Taiwan’s social media platforms and influencers in China’s favor. The tactics comprised of using prominent Taiwanese influencers as well as hefty job and accommodation arrangements for individuals that never visited China. A documentary has been published which depicted the intricate usage of social media platforms and influencers which was received with mixed perceptions in Taiwan.
Impact: Chinese social media influence and disinformation campaigns have significantly influenced the country’s foreign policy and geopolitical strategy. The usage of influencers and the leveraging of social media platforms isn’t novel although strategic and tactical modifications have been made to influence public opinion on a larger scale. The target focused operation on Taiwan represents a part of the Indo – Pacific geopolitical theater where China’s most indigenous adversary are the US. Operations such as this can be expected on a larger scale in the future both regionally and internationally.