The government and tech giants like Facebook and Google, possess previously unimaginable troves of information on the public’s activities and interests.
Social Media and Democracy articles on Democracy Chronicles
This Social Media and Democracy section highlights the ongoing saga of how this new type of communications technology impacts the progress of free and fair elections across the globe. Whether social media brings benefit or harm to democracy is an area of heavy debate. Be sure to also check out our Election Technology section and our articles on Technology Dissidents, the Internet and Voting or Journalism and Free Speech.
Proposed Nepal Social Media Law Threatens Freedom of Expression
A new restrictive law introduced by Nepalese government gives authorities powers to block social media platforms and remove or criminalise defamatory posts.
Facebook Prohibits Foreign-Funded Ads in Indonesia Election
Facebook says it will not allow foreign-funded advertisements for an upcoming presidential election in Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy.
UN Urges Social Media to Promote Human Rights in Myanmar
Social media firms and foreign investors must do more to ensure they support human rights in Myanmar, U.N. Special Rapporteur Yanghee Lee said on Tuesday.
It’s Princes and Princesses vs. Trolls in UK Social Media Battle
Britain’s royal family is warning that it will block trolls posting offensive messages on its social media channels and may report offenders to the police.
#SetThemFree Campaign Highlights Egypt and Nicaragua Dissidents
#SetThemFree campaign by World Movement for Democracy highlights Egyptian and Nicaraguan political prisoners and activists facing judicial harassment.
Teens Tweet Trump, Find Senate Ally, Score Civil Rights Win
New Jersey students of Hightstown High School tweeted Trump, his advisers, staff, Trump-friendly celebrities, all to score a civil rights win.
Cuba Cell Phone Internet Access Bringing Changes Fast
Cellphone internet access bringing changes fast to Cuba as residents used social media to assess damage and organize solidarity to help those in need.
Twitter Tightens EU Political Ad Rules Ahead of Election
Twitter said Tuesday it is tightening up rules for E.U. political ads ahead of elections, following similar moves by fellow tech giants Facebook and Google.
Trump Tweets His Fury at SNL Impersonation of Him, Again
The fake president mimicked Trump’s singsong voice during part of his Friday news conference announcing the national emergency.