Aid organization's press chief reveals secret online persona used to defend development aid

Poul Kjar, the press chief for DanChurchAid (Folkekirkens Nødhjælp), has admitted to engaging in a "digital masquerade" throughout August, using an anonymous online profile to defend the organization's work. Kjar revealed his actions in response to questions from the Danish newspaper Berlingske.

Kjar stated that he never described Berlingske's articles as "harassment." However, he acknowledged using an anonymous X (formerly Twitter) profile to counter criticism directed at DanChurchAid's development aid efforts. This online persona was reportedly used to attack another anonymous X profile and to criticize the media coverage by B.T. and Berlingske, which had questioned the use of anonymous X accounts in critical reporting on development assistance.

The situation highlights a complex interplay between aid organizations, media scrutiny, and online communication strategies. Kjar's actions raise questions about transparency and the methods employed by organizations to manage their public image and counter negative press, especially when involving anonymous online activities.

“

I have never called Berlingske's articles harassment.