The Covert Forces Behind Foreign Electoral Interference: An Analysis Of International Incidents And Legal Countermeasures
- IJLLR Journal
- May 3
- 1 min read
Gayathri. Narayanan. N, B.A., LL.B.(Hons.), School of Law, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
ABSTRACT
This research paper explores how the underlying dynamics of foreign interference in domestic elections, conceptualized as the “covert force,” vitiate electoral integrity, particularly in democratic societies. Through a comparative analysis of various political events, this paper examines how state and non-state actors influence an electoral outcome by deploying covert strategies and propaganda. The paper also presents a concise case study on the role of technology and cyberspace in exacerbating electoral polls and opinions through pervasive manipulation and how such events have led the government to adopt countermeasures at legislative and institutional levels to reinforce citizens' trust in democratic institutions. This paper proffers recommendations for the adoption of inter-agency engagement and a whole- of-society approach to address this geopolitical crisis in the absence of a standardized international legal framework.
Keywords: foreign electoral interference, general elections, deep-state theory, funded propaganda, democracy.
