Combating Disinformation: Central Asia’s Approach to a Global Challenge

In a region frequently buffeted by cross-border influences and geopolitical tensions, Central Asian nations are stepping up efforts to combat the growing threat of disinformation that has become a global concern.

Across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, government officials and civil society organizations are implementing various strategies to counter false information that threatens social cohesion and political stability in this strategically important region.

Kazakhstan, the region’s largest economy, has established a dedicated department within its Ministry of Information to monitor and respond to disinformation campaigns. The initiative comes after several incidents where fabricated stories about ethnic tensions spread rapidly across social media platforms, causing public alarm and threatening to disrupt the country’s multiethnic society.

“Disinformation poses a direct threat to our national security and social harmony,” said Marat Beketov, a senior advisor at Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Information. “We’re developing comprehensive approaches that balance combating false information while preserving freedom of expression.”

In neighboring Uzbekistan, which has undergone significant reforms under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, authorities have partnered with international organizations to train journalists in fact-checking techniques. The country’s Media Development Agency recently launched a certification program for reporters, emphasizing ethical standards and verification methodologies.

The initiative represents a shift from previous approaches that relied heavily on media restrictions. “Building media literacy and professional journalism capacity is more sustainable than censorship,” explained Gulnara Karimova, a media policy expert based in Tashkent.

Kyrgyzstan, often considered Central Asia’s most democratic state despite recent political turbulence, has embraced a different approach by fostering a network of independent fact-checking organizations. These groups, including FactCheck.kg and Media Policy Institute, actively debunk viral misinformation during sensitive periods like elections.

“Civil society must lead this fight because government-led efforts alone can raise concerns about censorship,” said Dinara Osmonova, director of a Bishkek-based media watchdog. “Our strategy involves education, monitoring, and public engagement rather than restrictive measures.”

The challenge is particularly acute in Central Asia given the region’s complex information ecosystem. Russian, Chinese, Turkish, and Western media all compete for influence, often presenting contradictory narratives on regional issues, from water resources management to border disputes. Social messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp serve as primary information sources for many citizens, creating fertile ground for unchecked claims to proliferate.

Regional experts note that disinformation campaigns often exploit existing ethnic, religious, and territorial sensitivities. In 2022, false reports about water allocation sparked temporary tensions between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan before being debunked by authorities on both sides.

“Disinformation isn’t just about false facts—it’s weaponized to exploit vulnerabilities in societies,” noted Dr. Elena Chernenko, a researcher at the Central Asian Security Institute. “The most dangerous narratives target existing fault lines.”

International organizations have recognized the region’s strategic importance in global information integrity efforts. The OSCE, UNESCO, and various European institutions have launched programs supporting media literacy, journalist training, and regulatory frameworks across Central Asia.

However, critics express concern that anti-disinformation initiatives might be misused to suppress legitimate opposition voices or critical reporting. Human rights organizations have documented instances where “combating false information” served as justification for blocking independent news sites in several countries across the region.

“The challenge is establishing systems that can distinguish between deliberate disinformation campaigns and protected speech, including criticism of authorities,” said Thomas Werner of the International Media Support network. “Effective solutions must protect both information integrity and fundamental freedoms.”

Regional cooperation offers promising avenues for addressing transnational disinformation challenges. In March, representatives from all five Central Asian states participated in a summit on information security in Almaty, establishing coordination mechanisms for cross-border responses to major disinformation incidents.

As digital connectivity continues expanding across Central Asia—bringing both opportunities and vulnerabilities—the region’s approach to information integrity may serve as an important case study for other developing regions navigating similar challenges between openness and security in their information environments.