Technology has transformed political communication and activism by allowing messages, organization and funding to cross borders almost instantly. However, it has also expanded surveillance, disinformation and the influence of governments and technology companies.
This question belongs to the Technology topic area in the IB Global Politics HL extension.
How the transformation works
| Transformation | Political mechanism and example |
|---|---|
| Direct communication | Digital platforms let political actors bypass traditional media gatekeepers. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, President Volodymyr Zelensky used video and social media to address domestic and international audiences. |
| Rapid mobilization | Networks reduce coordination costs. During Nigeria's October 2020 #EndSARS protests, the Feminist Coalition used online donations to coordinate legal aid, food and medical support. |
| Transnational activism | Hashtags give local grievances international visibility. After Mahsa Amini's death in Iranian custody in September 2022, #MahsaAmini circulated protest evidence despite internet restrictions. |
| Political microtargeting | Platforms tailor advertising using personal data. In 2018, Facebook said information from up to 87 million users may have been improperly shared with Cambridge Analytica, raising concerns about manipulation and electoral legitimacy. |
| Digital repression | States use shutdowns, surveillance and platform controls against activists. During Belarus's disputed 2020 election, protesters used Telegram channel Nexta to share information, while the government disrupted internet access and arrested opposition figures. |
These developments redistribute power among states, citizens and corporations. Activists gain power with through collective networks, while platforms exercise structural power by controlling algorithms, access and moderation. Cross-border flows increase , while disinformation and opaque targeting can weaken political .