Vietnam’s Communist Party Plans Social Media Propaganda Push

Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party plans to overhaul its propaganda strategy, with greater emphasis on social media, influencers and artificial intelligence, according to internal documents published by Reuters.

The party wants to build a network of at least 1,000 influencers and 5,000 AI experts by 2030 to spread “positive” content. The aim is to strengthen society’s “ideological immunity” against harmful or false information.

The new strategy is a response to technological change and an attempt to reach younger audiences in particular. Propaganda is to be adapted more closely to modern formats, including podcasts, short videos and tailored content for social networks. AI is also expected to help remove content that violates the rules within 24 hours in up to 90% of cases.

Vietnam is among the countries with the lowest levels of media freedom. The authorities already regulate content on social media.

Influencers are also to be drawn into the project, including through state-funded trips. Some, however, have refused to cooperate.

(reuters, est)