Conference Abstract

The Distortions, Rumours, Untruths, Misinformation, and Smears (DRUMS) conference will explore how advancements in technology, global shifts in power dynamics, and ongoing conflicts have influenced the landscape of information manipulation and interference. The panels will highlight policy-oriented perspectives and address a broad spectrum of themes and information environments across various regions.

Who Should Attend

Policy-makers, academics, and other experts who are: (a) concerned about DRUMS, (b) focused on their sociopolitical implications, and (c) interested in efforts to counter these threats. 

Confirmed Panels & Speakers (as of 27 October 2025)

Keynote Speech (with Question and Answer)

• Clint Watts, General Manager, Microsoft Threat Analysis Center

Panel 1: Trends in Information Landscape (with Question & Answer)

• Dr Carol Soon, Deputy Head and Associate Professor (Practice), Department of Communications and New Media, National University of Singapore
• Prof Sahana Udupa, Professor of Media Anthropology, LMU Munich, Germany and BKC Faculty Associate, Harvard University
• Benjamin Shultz, Lead Researcher, American Sunlight Project

Panel 2: Use of AI for Strategic Communications (with Question & Answer)

• Darius Buta, Senior Advisor, National Crisis Management Centre of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania
• Dr Surachanee Sriyai, Visiting Fellow, ISEAS-Yusuf Ishak Institute
• Jeremy Au Yong, Associate Editor, The Straits Times

Panel 3: Global Case Studies on Information Manipulation and Interference (with Question & Answer)

• Dr Jean-Baptiste Jeangène Vilmer, French Ambassador to Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, French Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Dr Benjamin YH Loh, Lecturer, Monash University Malaysia
• Summer Chen, Founder, FactLink

Panel 4: Strategies to Manage Disinformation (with Question & Answer)

• Jacobo Quintanilla, Programme Manager, Social Media & Conflict Mediation, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD)
• Angie D. Holan, Director, International Fact-Checking Network, Poynter Institute
• Dr Chew Han Ei, Head (Governance and Economy), Institute of Policy Studies