Counter Malign Influence Center

ARAC International Inc.'s Counter Malign Influence Division

1. Overview

ARAC International Inc. is launching a Counter Malign Influence Division dedicated to assisting organizations in developing comprehensive frameworks to counteract threats to democratic and economic progress from malign actors. This division will focus on areas such as media literacy, cybersecurity awareness, content analysis, countering disinformation and misinformation, counterintelligence/insider threat awareness, and preventing election tampering.

2. Objectives

• To combat threats posed by malign actors employing economic coercion, information warfare, military intervention, and support for authoritarian regimes.

• To support civil society organizations in promoting democracy and human rights.

• To strengthen the rule of law, democratic institutions, and media freedom.

• To build resilience against digital authoritarianism, disinformation, and cyberattacks.

3. Key Focus Areas

3.1 Media Literacy

• Develop and implement training programs to enhance critical analysis skills, enabling individuals to discern credible information from disinformation.

• Collaborate with educational institutions and community organizations to integrate media literacy into their curricula and programs.

3.2 Cybersecurity Awareness

• Conduct workshops and training sessions on cybersecurity best practices, emphasizing the importance of secure communication and information safeguarding.

• Provide resources and tools to enhance the cybersecurity posture of partner organizations.

3.3 Content Analysis

• Offer analytical services to examine and interpret media content, identifying disinformation trends and tactics.

• Develop methodologies for the systematic analysis of social media and traditional media content.

3.4 Countering Disinformation and Misinformation

• Create counter-narratives and fact-checking initiatives to combat disinformation and misinformation.

• Engage with technology platforms to develop strategies for identifying and mitigating the spread of false information.

3.5 Counterintelligence/Insider Threat Awareness

• Provide training on identifying and mitigating insider threats and espionage activities that contribute to malign influence operations.

• Develop policies and procedures for organizations to protect sensitive information from insider threats.

3.6 Preventing Election Tampering

• Collaborate with electoral bodies to strengthen election security measures, including cybersecurity defenses and voter information integrity.

• Develop and disseminate guidelines for detecting and responding to attempts at election interference.

4. Program Implementation

• Work closely with domestic and international partners to tailor programs addressing the unique challenges faced by different communities and organizations.

• Leverage digital technologies and innovative approaches to enhance program delivery and effectiveness.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the impact of initiatives and adapt strategies as needed.

• Utilize data analytics to inform decision-making and program adjustments.

6. Partnerships and Collaboration

• Foster partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector, and international bodies to amplify efforts and share best practices.

• Participate in global forums and networks dedicated to countering malign influence to stay abreast of emerging trends and collaborative opportunities.

7. Capacity Building

• Aim to build the long-term capacity of partner organizations, enabling them to independently counter malign influences and sustain democratic and economic progress.

• Provide ongoing support and resources to ensure the resilience and adaptability of initiatives.

This framework outlines ARAC International Inc.'s commitment to addressing the multifaceted threats posed by malign actors through a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The division's work is pivotal in safeguarding democratic values and ensuring a secure, informed, and resilient global community.