Social Media Influences in the Thai– Cambodian Conflict
Executive Summary Social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, X, and various messaging applications, have emerged as arenas for competing narratives in the recent Thai–Cambodian border crisis. These platforms have facilitated the dissemination of false or recycled footage, exaggerated claims regarding casualties and troop movements, and the creation of online "information cascades." Such dynamics have intensified nationalist sentiments, led to offline discrimination, and exerted pressure on political actors, thereby contributing to the persistence and escalation of tensions, even after formal ceasefires were declared. 1. Mechanisms: How Social Media Amplifies Cross-Border Tensions 1.1 Rapid Virality + Algorithmic Amplification Platform recommendation algorithms tend to prioritise highly engaging content, often characterised by sensational or emotional elements. This preference results in the amplification of dramatic posts and vide...