Research published on September 22, 2025, titled “Gekochte steun of misverstand? Vietnamese profielen overspoelen Timmermans-video’s,” reveals a surge of support for Frans Timmermans from Vietnamese profiles on social media.
- Timmermans receives unusual support from Vietnam.
- Profiles liking his posts may be fake.
- Uncertainty about likes' authenticity persists.
- No clear reason for Vietnamese interest.
- Report made to regulatory authority.
- Upcoming elections heighten scrutiny of support.
The support appears to come from three types of profiles: obviously fake, seemingly fake but more convincing, and genuine accounts. However, it remains unclear how many likes on Timmermans’ posts are from fake profiles. His spokesperson stated, “We do not know where Timmermans’ popularity in Vietnam comes from,” and confirmed that they reported the issue to the Authority for Consumers and Markets, which monitors foreign interference.
Despite Timmermans’ travels as a former European Commissioner, there is no public data indicating frequent visits to Vietnam. The possibility of purchased likes cannot be ruled out, as it is easy to manipulate social media engagement. Additionally, there is a chance that many Vietnamese users participated in a “digital chain reaction.”
As the Second Chamber elections approach, the unexpected support from Vietnam warrants close monitoring.
