By Bunmi Yekini
In the midst of global conflicts and unrest, a new form of resistance is emerging online, where digital activists from embattled communities are uniting to challenge oppressive regimes and drive social change. From protests in Bangladesh that led to a regime shift to movements across Africa fighting corruption, young people are harnessing the power of social media to hold leaders accountable and reshape civic participation.
In August 2024, digital activism in Bangladesh contributed to regime change, while in Kenya and across Africa, online and in-person protests are mobilizing communities to stand against corruption and unlawful governance. Meanwhile, in Europe, including the Western Balkans, and across the Middle East and North Africa, projects aimed at promoting youth engagement and media literacy are empowering the next generation to become informed and responsible activists.
To explore the power of digital activism and its impact on real-world change, the Media Diversity Institute (MDI) is hosting an online event on October 31, 2024, from 17:00 to 18:15 (UTC+3), coinciding with UNESCO’s Global Media and Information Literacy Week Conference in Amman, Jordan. The event will feature young digital activists from Asia, Europe, and Africa, alongside experts in media and civic participation.
“We are grateful to UNESCO for giving MDI the opportunity to share experiences of involving young people’s voices in shaping their future,” said Milica Pesic, Executive Director of MDI and panel moderator.
Speakers will include Olunifesi Suraj, Associate Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, who highlighted the significance of youth engagement through digital platforms: “Youths from Gen Z have a social media place to stand, a digital identity to uphold, and with it, they intend to shake the world.”
Hana Kojakovic, Project Manager of MDI’s “Get The Trolls Out!” initiative, emphasized the real-world impact of online solidarity: “Digital activism is not just about hashtags; it’s about diverse voices translating virtual solidarity into real-world change.” Yazan Abu al Rous, Salam Online Project Manager, further underscored the importance of online storytelling, noting that it “allows for a wide range of voices to be heard, particularly from underrepresented communities.”
The event promises to offer valuable insights into the power of social media as a tool for keeping decision-makers accountable, while also promoting responsible digital engagement.
Those interested in participating in the global conversation and be part of the movement can register using the link of the institute website.