Manipulative Propaganda in Georgia: Possibilities for Neutralizing It Using the Example of the ID Card Campaign

Abstract

The presented paper explores the manipulative propaganda conducted during the implementation of biometric documents (ID cards) in Georgia and the counter-strategic state communication employed in response. The relevance of the research underscored by the fact that the ID card reform was not merely a technological innovation but a primary prerequisite for the Visa Liberalization Action Plan (VLAP) with the European Union. Consequently, the public unrest surrounding this process transcended religious discourse and was directly linked to the country’s foreign policy orientation. The theoretical framework of the paper built upon models of mass communication such as Agenda-setting theory and Framing theory. Particular attention is given to the phenomenon of Fearmongering, utilized by opponents to instill irrational, existential threats within society. As a counterweight to this destructive campaign, the analysis relies on the Fear Appeal theoretical model, through which state strategic communication aimed to rationalize these fears, transform the perception of threat, and return the public to a framework of actual security. The study employs the Case Study method, relying on qualitative analysis, media content examination, and discourse analysis. The findings reveal that the portrayal of the ID card as the "Mark of the Beast" and a tool for total control was a classic instance of Fearmongering. In response, strategic communication managed to transform the narrative—replacing the frame of fear with frames of security, convenience, and European freedom. The research demonstrates that this "reframing" and proactive communication played a decisive role in neutralizing manipulative propaganda. The concluding section presents findings on the effectiveness of institutions during crisis communication when faced with deliberate fearmongering campaigns. The paper offers significant material for mass communication specialists and researchers better understand the mechanisms of combating manipulative propaganda in the digital age.