Disinformation, Conspiracy Theories and Violent Extremism in South Asia

Disinformation and conspiracy theories have long shaped extremist ideologies, but in South Asia, they are not just pathways to radicalisation; they also serve as ideological tools for extremist groups to validate their narratives and sustain violence. Keeping in view the proactive and tech-savvy nature of extremist groups, eager to learn and survive in a digitally interconnected world, as well as the weaponisation of disinformation and conspiracy theories as bait for extremist recruitment, the security and Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) initiatives in South Asia face far-reaching consequences. South Asia is one of the youngest regions in the world. If regional governments do not prioritise proactive policies that channel young talents into national development, empower youth with key knowledge to delegitimise extremist ideologies, promote critical thinking and refute extremist narratives, extremist groups will continue to thrive on the vulnerabilities of the region.