Army of bots promotes petrostate hosting global climate talks

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🗞️ Driving the news: Ahead of COP29, Azerbaijan faces scrutiny as over 1,800 bot accounts on X (formerly Twitter) have promoted the country’s hosting of the climate summit, as revealed by a disinformation analysis
• These bots, reportedly amplifying positive messages about Azerbaijan’s energy transition, also targeted Armenian issues, posting anti-Armenian messages
• This marks a pattern, as similar bot campaigns supported the UAE at COP28 last year

🔭 The context: Azerbaijan, a major oil and gas exporter, aims to highlight its renewable ambitions, despite a reliance on fossil fuels that account for 98% of its energy supply
• Bot activity primarily retweeted statements from Azerbaijani officials, claiming that oil and gas producers can lead the energy transition
• As the event’s public relations firm and X spokespersons remain silent, Azerbaijan’s ongoing expansion of gas production has raised concerns from environmentalists

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Azerbaijan’s position at COP29 highlights tensions between fossil fuel dependency and climate goals
• Bots promoting pro-Azerbaijani climate narratives could sway public opinion on the suitability of petrostates leading climate discussions, affecting global commitments to reduce fossil fuel dependence

⏭️ What's next: COP29 in Baku will likely bring renewed focus on petrostates’ influence over climate policy, with watchdogs emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency
• The continued presence of bot networks could pressure X to revisit its bot-moderation policies

💬 One quote: “Did we put the fox in charge of the henhouse?” questioned Regine Richter of Urgewald, regarding Azerbaijan’s gas expansion plans as it hosts COP29

📈 One stat: Azerbaijan plans a 32% increase in annual gas production by 2033, further fueling concerns over its climate commitments

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