The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: Prosecuting the Sahel's War Influencers with Lindsay Freeman
Jul 1, 2025
In a compelling discussion, Lindsay Freeman, Director of Technology, Law and Policy at UC Berkeley’s Human Rights Center, delves into the disturbing phenomenon of 'war influencers' in the Sahel. She highlights how influencers linked to private military companies, like the Wagner Group, share graphic conflict content that often serves as disturbing self-incrimination. The conversation also addresses the lack of accountability for these war crimes and Freeman's efforts to close the impunity gap through legal frameworks and international advocacy. A thought-provoking look at modern warfare and its digital presence.
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Global Ubiquity of Conflict Content
- Conflict content appears globally in many war zones, especially noted in Ukraine and Syria, adapting with technology use over time.
- It serves both as an intelligence source and propaganda tool with varying intentions behind the posts.
Neutrality of Conflict Content
- Conflict content is a neutral overarching term encompassing varied use: evidence for war crimes or malicious propaganda.
- Its impact depends on the user's intent, reflecting either documentation or incitement.
Choosing Mali for Deep Investigation
- Lindsay Freeman's team investigated Wagner's involvement in six countries before focusing on Mali due to escalation and lower international presence.
- Mali presented a unique research opportunity as a newer Wagner entry point with reduced media access and foreign forces.