False Information on Bangladesh in 2024: Rumor Scanner Identifies 2,919 Cases

Rumor Scanner Detects Record 2,919 Cases of False Information on Bangladesh in 2024

Fact-checking organization Rumor Scanner recorded a staggering 2,919 instances of false information related to Bangladesh in 2024, marking a significant rise compared to previous years. Politics accounted for the highest share, with 727 cases, most of which spread through social media platforms.

The report, published on the organization's website on Wednesday, noted a troubling surge in sectarian disinformation since last August, following a political transition in the country. Indian media outlets and social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), were highlighted as key sources of sectarian propaganda targeting Bangladesh after the interim government took office.

Of the 181 cases of sectarian disinformation documented, 118 originated from India, with 113 occurring within the last five months of the year. In comparison, 2023 saw 1,915 instances of false information, signaling an approximately 52% increase in disinformation in 2024.

The dissemination of false information spiked around the 12th national parliamentary elections held in January 2024. Throughout the year, Rumor Scanner identified an ongoing flow of disinformation, particularly during significant events. July and August, historic months marked by a student-led quota reform movement, led to the mass uprising and ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5.

Following the end of the 15-year AL rule, an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus assumed power on August 8. This transition was followed by an increase in sectarian disinformation campaigns originating from Indian media and X accounts targeting Bangladesh.

Key Findings from the 2024 Report:

1. Social Media Platforms:

   • Facebook accounted for 2,330 instances of false information, averaging over six cases daily.
   • YouTube followed with 565 cases, while TikTok recorded 509 cases in just six months.
   • X (formerly Twitter) saw 201 cases of misinformation campaigns aimed at Bangladesh.

2. Traditional Media:

   • National media outlets contributed to the spread of false information, with 151 cases identified in their reports.

3. Election-related Disinformation:

   • Around the 12th national parliamentary elections, 91 instances of false information were documented. Political disinformation surged both before and after the fall of the Awami League government.
   • In July and August alone, 128 cases of political misinformation were detected, with August recording the highest monthly total of 386 false claims.

4. Targeted Individuals:

   • Sheikh Hasina was the most frequently associated figure, with 208 cases of false information. Muhammad Yunus followed with 116 instances, and cricketer Shakib Al Hasan was third with 98 cases.

The report underscores the role of social media and traditional outlets in amplifying misinformation, with particular focus on political and sectarian content in a politically tumultuous year for Bangladesh.