Fact Check: China is an authoritarian and disinforming state just like Russia.

The Claim: "China is an authoritarian and disinforming state just like Russia."

1. Introduction

The assertion that "China is an authoritarian and disinforming state just like Russia" draws parallels between the political systems and information strategies of both countries. This claim suggests that both nations employ authoritarian governance and utilize disinformation as a tool for political and strategic advantage. To assess the validity of this claim, it is essential to examine the nature of authoritarianism in both countries and their respective approaches to disinformation.

2. What We Know

Authoritarianism

Both China and Russia are widely recognized as authoritarian regimes. According to the Freedom House report, both countries score low on political rights and civil liberties, indicating a lack of democratic governance and suppression of dissenting voices 2. In China, the Communist Party maintains strict control over political life, while in Russia, the government under President Vladimir Putin has systematically dismantled democratic institutions and suppressed opposition 3.

Disinformation Tactics

Disinformation is a significant aspect of both countries' strategies. Research indicates that both China and Russia have developed sophisticated methods to manipulate information and spread propaganda. A Brookings Institution report highlights that these countries have created "technology-driven playbooks for authoritarian rule," which include disinformation campaigns aimed at influencing public opinion both domestically and internationally 36.

Cooperation Between China and Russia

There is evidence of collaboration between China and Russia in the realm of disinformation. Reports suggest that both countries share tactics and strategies to enhance their influence and undermine democratic processes in other nations 47. This cooperation has been particularly noted in the context of global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions 8.

3. Analysis

Source Evaluation

1. Brookings Institution: A reputable think tank known for its research on international relations and governance. However, it may have a Western-centric bias, which could influence its framing of authoritarianism and disinformation 23.

2. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory: As a government research institution, it provides credible analysis, but its focus on national security may lead to a particular emphasis on the threats posed by authoritarian regimes 1.

3. The Soufan Center: This source provides analysis on security issues but may have a specific agenda in framing the narrative around authoritarianism and disinformation 7.

4. Foreign Policy Research Institute: Known for its focus on foreign policy, this source may also carry a bias towards emphasizing threats from authoritarian states 9.

Methodological Concerns

While many sources provide insights into the authoritarian nature of China and Russia, the methodologies used to assess disinformation tactics often lack transparency. For example, the criteria for defining "disinformation" can vary significantly between studies, which may affect the comparability of findings. Additionally, many reports rely on anecdotal evidence or case studies without comprehensive quantitative analysis, which could provide a more robust understanding of the scale and impact of disinformation efforts 610.

Conflicts of Interest

Some sources may have inherent biases based on their funding or institutional affiliations. For instance, think tanks often receive funding from governments or private entities that may have specific geopolitical interests, potentially influencing their analyses and conclusions 5.

4. Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that "China is an authoritarian and disinforming state just like Russia" is supported by substantial evidence indicating that both nations exhibit authoritarian governance and employ disinformation tactics. Key evidence includes their low scores on political rights and civil liberties as reported by Freedom House, as well as documented collaboration in disinformation strategies aimed at influencing both domestic and international audiences.

However, it is important to acknowledge the nuances in this comparison. While both countries share similar authoritarian characteristics and disinformation practices, the specific contexts and methods they employ may differ. Additionally, the sources used to assess these claims may carry biases or methodological limitations that could affect the interpretation of their findings.

Readers should remain aware of these limitations and critically evaluate the information presented. The complexities of authoritarianism and disinformation require careful consideration of the evidence and the potential biases of the sources involved.

5. Sources

1. COUNTERING THE “INFORMATION CONFRONTATION ... (https://cgsr.llnl.gov/sites/cgsr/files/2024-08/CGSR-Disinformation-Workshop-Summary.pdf)
2. PDF Exporting digital authoritarianism: The Russian and Chinese models (https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/FP_20190827_digital_authoritarianism_polyakova_meserole.pdf)
3. China and Russia are joining forces to spread disinformation (https://www.brookings.edu/articles/china-and-russia-are-joining-forces-to-spread-disinformation/)
4. PDF The Convergence of Disinformation: Examining Russia and China's ... (https://isdp.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ISDP-Special-Paper-Disinformation.pdf)
5. China and Russia Rejoice as the U.S. Cuts Its Global Media (https://nationalinterest.org/feature/authoritarians-rejoice-as-the-u-s-cuts-its-global-media)
6. The Convergence of Disinformation: Examining Russia and China's ... (https://www.isdp.eu/publication/the-convergence-of-disinformation-examining-russia-and-chinas-partnership-in-the-digital-age/)
7. IntelBrief: Implications of China-Russia Cooperation on ... (https://thesoufancenter.org/intelbrief-2024-march-20/)
8. Breaking Down Russian and Chinese Disinformation and ... (https://www.pism.pl/publications/breaking-down-russian-and-chinese-disinformation-and-propaganda-about-the-war-in-ukraine)
9. Fuel on the Fire: Information As a Weapon - Foreign Policy Research ... (https://www.fpri.org/article/2025/03/fuel-on-the-fire-information-as-a-weapon/)
10. The Russia and China Disinformation Nexus - DiVA (https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1765694/FULLTEXT02)