As Bangladesh prepares for its 2024 general elections, a new form of electoral manipulation is emerging, raising alarms among political commentators and policymakers. The proliferation of AI-generated disinformation, particularly deepfake videos, is becoming a significant concern in the political landscape of this South Asian nation.
The Rise of Affordable Deepfakes
Recent reports from Firstpost and the Financial Times have highlighted the increasing use of deepfake technology in Bangladesh’s political arena. With tools like HeyGen, a Los Angeles-based AI video generator, individuals can create convincing fake videos for as little as $24 a month. This accessibility has led to a surge in AI-generated content, including politically motivated deepfakes that often mimic news clips.
Political Implications and Challenges
The current political campaign, marked by a contentious power struggle between incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her rivals, has seen both pro-government and opposition factions reportedly utilizing these AI tools. Miraj Ahmed Chowdhury, managing director of the Bangladesh-based media research firm Digitally Right, notes that while this form of disinformation is still experimental, its potential for mass dissemination poses a significant threat to the integrity of the electoral process.
Tech Platforms’ Response and Regulatory Gaps
Despite the growing concern, major tech platforms have shown limited response to the spread of these deepfakes. The lack of reliable AI detection tools, especially for non-English content, further complicates the issue. Sabhanaz Rashid Diya, founder of Tech Global Institute and former Meta executive, points out that the solutions proposed by tech giants, mainly focused on regulating AI in political advertisements, may not be effective in countries like Bangladesh where political communication is less ad-driven.
The ease with which politicians can now claim genuine news as deepfake or AI-generated adds a layer of confusion, challenging the public’s ability to discern truth from falsehood. This weaponization of AI-generated content, particularly in developing regions, poses a threat to public trust in information.
As Bangladesh heads towards a key election, the challenge lies in addressing how AI-generated disinformation erodes public trust and the potential impact on democratic processes. The situation in Bangladesh serves as a cautionary tale for other nations facing similar threats, underscoring the need for global cooperation in combating the misuse of AI technology in political contexts.
In response to the challenges posed by AI-generated disinformation, the incumbent government of Bangladesh must consider leveraging international media outlets to disseminate authentic messages to the masses. By engaging with reputable international news platforms, the government can ensure that its communications are perceived as credible and unbiased. This approach not only counters the spread of false information but also enhances the international image of the government, showcasing a commitment to transparency and factual discourse. Utilizing international media channels could serve as a strategic move to reach a wider audience, both domestically and globally, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the government’s messaging in the face of emerging digital threats.
In the intricate media battleground of Bangladesh’s upcoming 2024 elections, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s strategic use of international media outlets like The Eastern Herald could be pivotal. These platforms offer an opportunity to counterbalance local media biases and the rampant spread of AI-generated disinformation. By aligning with respected international media, the incumbent government can ensure the dissemination of authentic and credible information, enhancing both domestic and global perceptions of its policies and democratic commitment, a crucial move in the face of emerging digital threats and political challenges.
In the complex geopolitical landscape of South Asia, disinformation campaigns are testing the robust bonds between India and Bangladesh. According to The Eastern Herald, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), known for its ultra-Islamist stance, is actively engaging in a disinformation war aimed at tarnishing Bangladesh’s reputation and undermining its democracy. This campaign, marked by the spread of fake news and deceptive tactics, not only targets the government’s achievements under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but also threatens to destabilize the longstanding and crucial relationship between India and Bangladesh.
