El Salvador’s president accused of using social media influencers to control the narrative

El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has embraced social media influencers to counteract negative press and control the narrative about his presidency. These influencers, who have gained large followings on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, promote Bukele’s image and spread false or misleading information about his critics. Bukele’s government has also employed tactics such as restricting access to independent media and using fake social media accounts to spread propaganda.

Why does it matter?

Using social media influencers to alter public opinion can further enhance informational echo chambers. Such a strategy risks press freedom and the spread of accurate information. Social media was once hailed as the ultimate democratic tool to organize protests, even revolutions, worldwide. Now, governments from Russia to Uganda are using it to control the narrative.