Austrian political scientist Farid Hafez filed a $10 million lawsuit against George Washington University and Lorenzo Vidino, the director of its extremism program. This legal action unveils what researchers term a lucrative “disinformation for hire” industry, marking the second such case in US courts this year.
Accusations Against George Washington University
Hafez’s lawsuit extends beyond mere financial influence accusations, alleging that George Washington University (GWU) and Vidino conspired to deceive authorities, academia, and the press. The suit contends that they presented themselves as independent academic entities while engaging in activities that tarnished reputations on behalf of a sovereign state.
Role of Lorenzo Vidino
Lorenzo Vidino, accused of leveraging his position at GWU, purportedly targeted academics, businesses, and charities by disseminating false reports linking them to the designated terrorist organization, the Muslim Brotherhood. The lawsuit portrays Vidino as a “hired gun,” packaging unverified information under the guise of academic scholarship to discredit individuals and institutions.
Impact on Farid Hafez
Hafez, a visiting professor at Williams College, Massachusetts, found himself entangled in legal troubles due to Operation Luxor, a series of police raids in Austria. He attributes his ordeal to a report authored by Vidino. The lawsuit highlights the devastating personal consequences faced by Hafez, whose life was allegedly ruined by the actions of GWU, Vidino, and Alp Services.
Legal Ramifications and Response
Seeking both compensatory and punitive damages, Hafez’s legal action underscores the serious implications of alleged disinformation campaigns orchestrated by influential academic figures. While GWU and Vidino declined to comment on the lawsuit, the case raises significant concerns about the integrity of academic institutions and their susceptibility to foreign influence.
SOURCE: Ref Image from France 24
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