The Use of Cognitive Warfare in Geoeconomics

Abstract This study explores the growing role of Cognitive Warfare (CW) in contemporary geoeconomic competition. As the global economy shifts from free-market capitalism to strategic capitalism, states are increasingly weaponizing economic interdependencies, supply chains, financial systems, and legal frameworks to achieve geopolitical and geoeconomic objectives. The research highlights how non-market factors – including lawfare, psychological operations, reputational attacks, and the manipulation of civil society organizations – have become central tools in contemporary economic warfare. The study examines the interactions between CW, geoeconomics, and economic intelligence, illustrating how Non-Governmental Organizations and other actors can be leveraged to weaken adversaries through narratives grounded in ethical, environmental, or legal claims.