The Evolution of Active Measures and Disinformation

This lecture event is part of the 14th Annual Kościuszko Chair Conference presented by the Kościuszko Chair of Polish Studies and the Center for Intermarium Studies. About the lecture: It was initially believed that active measures would disintegrate and disappear with the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, it has become evident that active measures have not disappeared, but rather have only largely transferred to the digital domain. The term active measures was coined in the 1920’s; however, Russia has practiced these political warfare tactics for centuries. Through all this time the message has stayed the same, Russia hopes to sow divisions between societies and allies, but ultimately wants citizens to lose hope in liberal democracies. The end goal is to make the world a safer place for Putin’s authoritarian regime. Through analyzing active measures that have taken place in both the near abroad nations and the United States from the Cold War years until today, it becomes evident that active measures have not disappeared, but rather have only evolved in their technique and form. About the speaker: Ms. Agnes Tycner recently graduated from The Institute of World Politics with a master’s degree in Statecraft and International Affairs with a specialization in Russia and Central/Eastern Europe. She will be working for the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation starting January as a Research Fellow in Polish Studies. Agnes also plans to continue her education by attending law school.