Anonymous TikTok Accounts Promote Pro-Russia Narratives in Czech Elections

In the lead-up to the Czech Republic’s parliamentary elections scheduled for October 3-4, 2023, an investigation has revealed that hundreds of anonymous TikTok accounts are disseminating pro-Russia content and endorsing radical political parties. The findings come from a report by the Czech non-governmental organization, Online Risk Labs, which identified 286 TikTok accounts that collectively garnered between 5 million and 9 million weekly views. This reach surpasses that of mainstream party leaders and highlights the potential influence of these accounts on the electoral landscape.

Online Risk Labs noted that the identified accounts do not support a single political entity but rather promote a range of radical and extremist parties simultaneously. Their analysis indicates that this coordinated effort could significantly affect voter perceptions and choices as the election approaches.

Concerns Over TikTok’s Influence

Approximately 25% of Czechs use TikTok, a figure lower than in Romania, where a presidential election was annulled due to allegations of Russian interference on the platform. In response to the situation, the Czech telecommunications watchdog, CTU, has received multiple complaints about these accounts. The agency stated, “We have found these suggestions relevant and handed them over to the European Commission as the supervisory organ for large platforms.” The CTU is also in communication with TikTok regarding the matter, seeking further action against the spread of misinformation.

Despite the growing concerns, TikTok and the Czech Interior Ministry have not yet responded to inquiries about the situation.

Political Landscape Ahead of the Elections

The accounts monitored by Online Risk Labs have expressed support for various parties, including the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) and the far-left Stacilo!. The SPD currently ranks third in opinion polls, with around 13% support, while Stacilo! is polling just above the 5% threshold necessary to enter parliament. Notably, both parties advocate for the Czech Republic’s exit from NATO and the European Union.

The report also highlighted that the candidates being promoted by these accounts may not be aware of the content being shared. Recent polls indicate that the opposition ANO party, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis, is leading significantly over the current Prime Minister Petr Fiala and his SPOLU coalition. Analysts suggest that for Babis to secure a majority, he may need to rely on the support of the SPD and Stacilo!.

As the election draws closer, the implications of these findings raise questions about the influence of social media in shaping political narratives and the necessity for regulatory oversight to prevent foreign interference in domestic elections.