Use of Visual Media by LTTE Front Organisations to Influence Post-war Sri Lanka

Abstract

In May 2009, following a thirty-year armed conflict, Sri Lanka's territorial integrity was restored. However, the LTTE International Network's information warfare against Sri Lanka has not yet ended, and the LTTE continues to engage in cyber-hostilities and cyber- information warfare. The true objective of such operations is to radicalize the minds of people, particularly young people who have not yet seen the ravages of war and are therefore susceptible to manipulation. Hence, the purpose of this study is to examine the patterns of visualizing utilized by the International network of LTTE, which are the front organizations to influence communities and foster misconceptions. The study shall be conducted as Doctrinal research. Data shall be obtained through primary and secondary resources and shall be analyzed qualitatively. To be more specific, open-source material found on social media, printed and visual media shall be utilized in gathering the requisite data. The principal objectives of conducting this study are as follows. Firstly, the paper shall explore how disinformation that is disseminated through visual media affect international communities and radicalize youths. Secondly, this shall examine the potential consequences of radicalization through the media, which might degrade the community's tranquil existence now and in the future. Finally, the paper shall address the legal implications of using visual media as a medium of communication. Concerning international law, the author shall provide recommendations on several elements of strategic policymaking.