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Disinformation and epidemics: The next phase of biowarfare with Rose Bernard

Disinformation and epidemics: The next phase of biowarfare with Rose Bernard

FromWar Studies


Disinformation and epidemics: The next phase of biowarfare with Rose Bernard

FromWar Studies

ratings:
Length:
46 minutes
Released:
Mar 18, 2021
Format:
Podcast episode

Description

Are we entering a fifth era of biological warfare? One that does not depend on the existence of a manufactured biological weapon, but rather seeks to weaponise fake news and disinformation?

As we move beyond the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic, we talk to Rose Bernard, doctoral researcher in global health security, in the Conflict and Health Research Group in the Department of War Studies. She believes the deluge of fake news that accompanied the coronavirus, along with the rapid rise of the anti-vax movement in the last 10 years, and misinformation during the Ebola outbreaks, reveal how damaging disinformation can be to public health efforts.

We discuss how this new type of biowarfare could incorporate the use of cyber capabilities to undermine sociopolitical systems by virtually escalating natural outbreaks. Such a campaign could have a catastrophic impact – potentially diverting the course of an epidemic by preventing people from accessing treatment, increasing civil conflict, and provoking attacks on health workers.
Released:
Mar 18, 2021
Format:
Podcast episode

Titles in the series (100)

The School of Security Studies harnesses the depth and breadth of expertise across War Studies and Defence Studies to produce world-leading research and teaching on issues of global security that develops new empirical knowledge, employs innovative theory, and addresses vital policy issues. The podcasts highlight the School's research and teaching activities as well as cover events the department organises for its students and the public. DISCLAIMER: Any information, statements or opinions contained in these podcasts are those of the individual speakers. They do not represent the opinions of the Department of War Studies or King's College London.