States are increasingly using the past to shape the present. New research by Matthew Redhead (RUSI) examines how historical narratives, archival material and reputations can be manipulated as part of wider information and influence operations. The briefing explores tactics ranging from selective archival releases and forgeries to historical fiction, film and emerging technologies such as generative AI and deepfakes, and considers what this means for information integrity and the resilience of democratic societies.

Eliza Lockhart of RUSI has contributed to a new Hybrid CoE handbook examining how Russia uses non-state actors across hybrid threat operations, including sabotage, disinformation and cyber activity. The handbook provides an overview of Russia’s approach and its implications for responding to hybrid threats.

Research by Dr Alexander Kupatadze and Dr Erica Marat into changing patterns of serious crime and organised criminal activity across Eastern Europe and Central Asia has been covered by The New Voice of Ukraine. Their research examines how the war in Ukraine, sanctions, disrupted trade routes and population displacement are reshaping illicit markets and criminal networks across the region. The findings form part of the wider SOC ACE project, Exploring the Consequences of Organised Crime and Illegal Trade Displacement on Eurasia, which investigates how conflict and economic disruption are creating new opportunities and challenges for organised crime.