Pentagon Concedes Error in Psychological Operations Aimed at Discrediting Sinovac
The United States Department of Defense has admitted to spreading anti-vaccination propaganda targeting China’s Sinovac vaccine during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a document dated June 25, 2024. The propaganda effort was aimed at the Philippines and other countries, leveraging online bots and fake social media accounts to influence public opinion.
The Pentagon acknowledged that its messaging raised concerns about Sinovac’s safety and efficacy, recognizing the operation as a misstep in its Covid-related communications. While U.S. military officials noted improvements in oversight since 2022, the campaign is viewed by critics as harmful, with health experts emphasizing its potential to endanger lives by undermining public trust in vaccines.
This covert operation was part of a broader psychological campaign to counter China’s global influence, particularly in nations like the Philippines, which relied heavily on Sinovac for its vaccination efforts. As of 2024, the Philippines has suffered over 67,000 Covid-19 related deaths.
The Pentagon ceased its anti-vax efforts related to Sinovac and Covid-19 in August 2021. The Philippines Senate has launched an investigation into the issue, with Senator Imee Marcos calling the campaign “dangerous” and “unethical.”
