DISINFO: Suppression of media freedom is the norm in the Baltic States
SUMMARY
Suppression of media freedom and violation of the rights of national minorities have become a norm in the Baltic States. Extremist parties, movements and groups that spread the ideology of Nazism, racial superiority, discrimination and xenophobia are feeling more and more at ease.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative about the Baltic States. Consistent with the narrative that the West is dominated by fascist/ Nazi groups and ideology. Estonia ranks 11th in the World Press Freedom Index, 2019. Latvia and Lithuania rank 24th and 30th accordingly. Russia currently ranks 149th out of 180 countries, one place down since the last year. Painting the Baltic States as Nazis is a recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation tactic. See related examples of disinformation cases here, here and here.