The arrest of social media influencer Jyoti Malhotra over alleged ties with Pakistani intelligence officials and promoting their narrative has put a spotlight on Pakistan's strategies. Not only is Pakistan targeting India, but it's also seeking out influential women globally, using their platforms to polish its global image, particularly on issues of women's safety, education, and security.
Aaj Tak identified at least 5 social media influencers from the USA, UK, Australia, Netherlands, and Scotland whose content aligns with Pakistan's government narrative. These vloggers frequently travel to Pakistan's villages, cities, and schools, showcasing the country as a peaceful, secure, and progressive place. However, these visits often occur under supervision by local guides and police, indicating they aren't entirely independent explorations.
Source: aajtak
Efforts to Shine Pakistan's Image
A British content creator operates a YouTube channel 'Shamozai Mangoes,' serving as a significant example. Known as Rebecca, she has uploaded 23 videos focused solely on Pakistan over two years. Although she claims to be a travel blogger, her exclusive focus on Pakistan raises questions about her channel's objective.
In one video, Rebecca mentions being warned of Pakistan's dangers and advised against visiting, but she wanted to see for herself, boldly stating, 'I’m a Northern girl; fear does not stop me.' In another video, she films with Pakistani police officials, attempting to demonstrate that Pakistan is safe for women.
In one of her videos, a local handler says, 'We created a YouTube channel and invited Rebecca to experience Pakistan firsthand. When she returns to the UK, she’ll share what she witnessed.' Fascinatingly, her Facebook page with over 63,000 followers is filled with posts supporting Pakistan, from backing the cricket team to celebrating its Independence Day. In 2022, an X profile named 'Shamozai Mangoes' posted a crowdfunding link following floods in Pakistan.
Different Faces, Same Script
Another influencer from the Netherlands, Flora Gonin, echoes similar themes. She states that her goal is to portray what traveling in Pakistan is truly like, especially as a foreign woman, challenging the Western media's portrayal. Her YouTube channel, boasting over 90,000 subscribers, features 22 out of 40 videos focused on Pakistan. In one clip, she explores parts of Bahawalpur deemed restricted for foreigners, accompanied by a police escort, as she tries to convince her audience of women's safe travel in Pakistan.
This list goes on. American vlogger Valley B, Australia’s Irina Yaminaska, and Scotland’s Alan and Shannon display a similar pattern: showing Pakistan as safe for women, praising hospitality while dismissing terrorism concerns.
Source: aajtak
Why Choose Female Vloggers?
Their strategy employs Western female vloggers as they seem impartial and sympathetic. This perception results in viewers believing these individuals are sharing genuine personal experiences, but it is a strategic effort to polish Pakistan’s image. Meanwhile, the US Department of State advises its citizens against visiting Pakistan, citing ongoing threats of terrorism and conflict.
Why This Image Revamping Strategy?
Pakistan currently grapples with internal security crises and economic woes. Traditional diplomacy appears ineffective, leading it to rely on digital influencers and vloggers to sway global opinion.
