Recent reports have highlighted how Russian disinformation networks are leveraging the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) alliance to propagate pro-Kremlin narratives in Australia. This strategy involves disseminating false information to undermine international support for Ukraine and to influence public opinion within Australia.
It’s alleged that key figures such as John Shipton, father of Julian Assange, and Simeon Boikov, known as the “Aussie Cossack,” have been involved in BRICS-related events that promote Russian viewpoints. Shipton received the “Voice of the World BRICS 2024” award at a panel discussion in Kazan, Russia, organized by the BRICS Journalists Association (BJA), an entity linked to Russian disinformation campaigns. Boikov, reportedly evading arrest by residing in the Russian consulate in Sydney, was also honoured for his support of Russian narratives.
It’s alleged that these activities underscore a concerted effort by Russian entities to utilise the BRICS platform to disseminate disinformation, aiming to shift geopolitical perceptions and influence public discourse in Australia.
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Context & Background
BRICS, established in 2009, is an intergovernmental organisation comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, representing major emerging economies. The alliance aims to promote peace, security, and development among its members. However, recent activities suggest that Russia is utilising this platform to disseminate disinformation and influence global narratives.
In Australia, Russian disinformation campaigns have previously targeted media outlets to sway public opinion regarding the Ukraine conflict. For instance, in June 2024, researchers identified a sophisticated pro-Russian influence campaign, dubbed “Operation Overload,” which aimed to manipulate Australian media by disseminating false content and overwhelming fact-checking systems.
The Australian government has actively worked to counter such disinformation efforts. In October 2024, Australia supported UK and EU initiatives to call out Russian disinformation and malicious activities, emphasising the need for coordinated international action to address these challenges.
In This Story
John Shipton
John Shipton is an Australian activist and the father of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. He has been involved in various international forums advocating for freedom of speech and has recently participated in BRICS-related events promoting Russian narratives.
Simeon Boikov
Simeon Boikov, also known as the “Aussie Cossack,” is an Australian pro-Russian activist. He has been involved in promoting Russian viewpoints and is reportedly residing in the Russian consulate in Sydney to evade arrest.
BRICS
BRICS is an intergovernmental organisation comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It aims to promote peace, security, and development among its member countries.
BRICS Journalists Association (BJA)
The BRICS Journalists Association is an organisation that brings together media professionals from BRICS countries. It has been linked to Russian disinformation campaigns aimed at promoting pro-Kremlin narratives.
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