18.2 Technological Change and Political Participation
5 min read•july 30, 2024
Digital tech is reshaping Latin American politics. and are boosting , but also spreading misinformation. These tools can amplify and improve services, yet they risk excluding those without access.
The in Latin America reflects broader inequalities. While governments are working to increase access, bridging this gap requires sustained investment in infrastructure and education. As tech evolves, its impact on politics will continue to be a key issue.
Digital Technologies and Political Engagement in Latin America
Transforming Citizen Engagement and Mobilization
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- (internet and mobile phones) have transformed the ways citizens engage with politics and mobilize for social and political causes in Latin America
- Social media platforms (Facebook and Twitter) have become key tools for allowing politicians and activists to directly reach and interact with citizens
- and have played a significant role in mobilizing people for protests, demonstrations, and other forms of collective action in the region
- The use of digital technologies has lowered the barriers to political participation enabling marginalized groups (indigenous communities and youth) to have a greater voice in political processes
Potential Drawbacks and Challenges
- The impact of digital technologies on political engagement is not always positive
- They can be used for spreading misinformation, polarizing public opinion, and undermining democratic institutions
- The spread of and propaganda through social media can manipulate public opinion and erode trust in democratic processes
- Digital technologies can create where people are exposed only to information that reinforces their existing beliefs leading to increased polarization
Benefits and Risks of E-Governance
Potential Benefits of E-Governance Initiatives
- E-governance refers to the use of digital technologies to deliver government services, engage with citizens, and facilitate political participation
- Online platforms (government websites and mobile apps) can improve the accessibility, efficiency, and transparency of public services reducing bureaucracy and corruption
- For example, online portals can allow citizens to access government services (applying for licenses or paying taxes) without having to visit physical offices
- E-governance initiatives ( and ) have the potential to increase citizen participation in decision-making processes and strengthen democratic accountability
- Online voting can make it easier for citizens to cast their ballots, particularly in remote areas or for those with mobility issues
- Public consultations through online platforms can allow a wider range of citizens to provide input on policy decisions
Risks and Challenges in Implementing E-Governance
- The implementation of e-governance also poses risks:
- Potential for and data breaches that can compromise sensitive information and undermine trust in e-governance systems
- Exclusion of citizens who lack access to digital technologies due to factors such as poverty, illiteracy, or geographic isolation
- The success of e-governance depends on factors such as digital infrastructure, , and the political will to promote inclusive and participatory governance
- Adequate investment in digital infrastructure (broadband networks and data centers) is necessary to ensure reliable and secure e-governance services
- Digital literacy programs are needed to equip citizens with the skills to effectively use e-governance platforms and participate in online political processes
- Political leaders must be committed to using e-governance to enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement rather than as a tool for control or manipulation
Social Media's Influence on Public Opinion
Social Media as a Battleground for Shaping Public Opinion
- Social media platforms have become a major source of political information and a key battleground for shaping public opinion in Latin America
- Political parties and candidates increasingly use social media for campaigning, targeting voters with personalized messages and ads based on their online behavior and preferences
- For example, political campaigns can use to identify and target specific voter segments with tailored messages on social media
- Social media can amplify the voices of marginalized groups and social movements allowing them to challenge dominant narratives and influence public discourse
- Activists can use social media to organize protests, raise awareness about social issues, and pressure governments to address their concerns
Risks and Challenges of Social Media in Politics
- Social media can also be used to spread disinformation, propaganda, and hate speech contributing to the polarization of public opinion and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions
- False information can spread rapidly on social media, particularly when it appeals to people's emotions or prejudices
- Foreign actors can use social media to interfere in elections by spreading disinformation or amplifying social divisions
- The impact of social media on electoral outcomes is complex and contested
- Some studies suggest that social media can influence voter behavior by shaping their perceptions of candidates and issues
- Others argue that the effects of social media are limited or overstated and that traditional factors (party affiliation, economic conditions) remain more important in determining electoral outcomes
Digital Inclusion in Latin America
The Digital Divide and Its Implications
- The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not, which can reinforce existing social and economic inequalities
- In Latin America, the digital divide is shaped by factors such as income, education, geography, and ethnicity
- Rural and indigenous communities often face the greatest barriers to digital inclusion due to lack of infrastructure, affordability, and digital literacy
- Lack of access to digital technologies can limit citizens' ability to participate in e-governance initiatives, access online services, and engage in political processes
- This can exacerbate political marginalization and undermine efforts to promote inclusive governance
Initiatives to Promote Digital Inclusion
- Governments and civil society organizations have implemented various initiatives to promote digital inclusion:
- Community internet centers provide shared access to computers and the internet in underserved areas
- Digital literacy programs aim to equip citizens with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively use digital technologies
- Subsidies and discounts for internet access and devices can help make them more affordable for low-income households
- However, bridging the digital divide requires sustained investments in digital infrastructure, education, and skills development
- This includes expanding broadband networks, particularly in rural areas, and improving the quality and affordability of internet services
- Education systems need to integrate digital skills into their curricula to prepare students for the digital economy and society
- Policies that prioritize digital inclusion as a key component of social and economic development are essential for ensuring that the benefits of digital technologies are widely shared
- This may involve targeted initiatives to support marginalized communities, as well as broader efforts to create an enabling environment for digital innovation and entrepreneurship
Key Terms to Review (24)
#metoo movement: The #metoo movement is a social campaign against sexual harassment and assault, which gained significant traction in 2017 after numerous allegations surfaced against powerful figures. This movement uses social media platforms to empower individuals, primarily women, to share their experiences of sexual violence, fostering a sense of solidarity and demanding accountability from perpetrators. It has also sparked broader conversations about consent, workplace culture, and systemic inequalities that enable such behavior.
Access Now: Access Now is a global advocacy organization focused on defending and extending the digital rights of users worldwide. It connects the growing influence of technology on political participation, highlighting how access to the internet can empower individuals, promote civic engagement, and enhance democratic processes.
Arab Spring: The Arab Spring was a series of anti-government protests and uprisings that spread across the Arab world beginning in late 2010, aiming to demand political reform, end authoritarian regimes, and promote democracy. It is significant for its widespread use of social media and technology to mobilize citizens and facilitate political participation, reshaping the political landscape of the region.
Citizen Engagement: Citizen engagement refers to the active participation of individuals in the political processes and decision-making that affect their lives. This concept encompasses various forms of involvement, including voting, attending public meetings, and using technology to communicate with government officials. As technological change continues to evolve, the methods and avenues for citizen engagement have expanded, enabling greater access and participation in political discourse.
Claudia Sheinbaum: Claudia Sheinbaum is a Mexican politician and scientist who serves as the current head of government of Mexico City. She is notable for being the first woman to hold this position and has a background in environmental science, which influences her policies aimed at technological change and political participation in the city.
Cyber attacks: Cyber attacks are malicious attempts to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or devices. These attacks can target critical infrastructure, personal data, or government institutions, often leading to severe consequences in political and social contexts, particularly influencing technological change and political participation.
Data analytics: Data analytics refers to the process of collecting, processing, and analyzing data to discover patterns, trends, and insights that can inform decision-making. It plays a crucial role in understanding political behavior, public opinion, and electoral trends, especially in the context of technological advancements that influence political participation.
Digital campaigns: Digital campaigns refer to strategic initiatives that use digital platforms and technologies to promote political messages, engage with voters, and mobilize support. These campaigns leverage social media, email, websites, and other online tools to reach a wider audience, enhance political participation, and influence public opinion.
Digital divide: The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals who have access to modern information and communication technology, such as the internet and computers, and those who do not. This divide often results in disparities in opportunities for education, employment, and political participation, particularly affecting marginalized groups within society.
Digital literacy: Digital literacy refers to the ability to effectively and critically navigate, evaluate, and create information using a range of digital technologies. This skill set is essential for individuals to participate fully in modern society, especially as digital platforms increasingly influence communication, education, and political engagement.
Digital technologies: Digital technologies refer to electronic tools, systems, devices, and resources that generate, store, or process data. These technologies include the internet, social media platforms, smartphones, and various forms of digital communication. They play a crucial role in shaping political participation by enabling citizens to engage with political processes in new and transformative ways.
E-governance: E-governance refers to the use of digital technologies, particularly the internet, to enhance the delivery of government services, improve communication between citizens and the government, and promote transparency and accountability in public administration. This approach not only facilitates easier access to government services but also encourages greater political participation by allowing citizens to engage with their governments through various online platforms.
Echo chambers: Echo chambers are environments where individuals are exposed only to information and opinions that reinforce their existing beliefs, leading to a distorted understanding of reality. In the context of technological change and political participation, echo chambers have become increasingly prevalent due to the rise of social media and personalized news feeds, which curate content based on users' preferences. This selective exposure can polarize opinions, reduce critical thinking, and foster a sense of community among like-minded individuals.
Fake news: Fake news refers to misinformation or disinformation that is presented as legitimate news, often designed to mislead audiences for political, financial, or social gain. This phenomenon has been amplified by the rise of social media and online platforms, which allow for the rapid spread of such content. The prevalence of fake news can significantly influence public opinion and political participation by creating confusion and undermining trust in credible information sources.
Julio Cesar Chavez: Julio Cesar Chavez was a prominent Mexican-American labor leader and civil rights activist known for his efforts to improve conditions for farmworkers in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. He co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) union, which utilized nonviolent tactics and mobilized grassroots support to demand better wages, working conditions, and rights for agricultural laborers. His work illustrates how technological change can play a role in political participation, as Chavez effectively used media and communication tools to rally public support and engage the broader community in the struggle for farmworker rights.
Marginalized voices: Marginalized voices refer to the perspectives and experiences of individuals or groups who are often overlooked, silenced, or excluded from mainstream political and social discourse. These voices typically belong to communities facing systemic discrimination or disadvantage, such as racial minorities, women, the LGBTQ+ community, and low-income populations. In the context of political participation, technological change has the potential to amplify these voices by providing new platforms for expression and engagement.
Networked politics: Networked politics refers to the use of digital technologies and social media platforms to facilitate political engagement, organization, and mobilization among citizens. This term highlights how online networks can empower individuals and groups to participate in political discourse, share information, and coordinate actions more effectively than traditional political structures. It emphasizes the role of connectivity and collective action in shaping political outcomes in contemporary society.
Online activism: Online activism refers to the use of digital platforms, social media, and internet-based tools to promote social, political, or environmental causes and engage the public in advocacy efforts. This form of activism has transformed traditional methods of mobilization, enabling rapid dissemination of information, organizing protests, and fostering community engagement across diverse populations.
Online voting: Online voting is a method of casting votes via the internet, allowing voters to participate in elections and decision-making processes using digital platforms. This approach enhances accessibility and convenience, making it easier for individuals to engage in the democratic process, especially for those who may face barriers to traditional voting methods.
Political Communication: Political communication is the process through which information, messages, and ideas related to politics are conveyed between individuals, groups, and institutions. It encompasses various forms of communication, including media coverage, public speeches, and social media interactions, which play a critical role in shaping public opinion and influencing political behavior. The evolution of communication technologies has transformed how political messages are disseminated and received, impacting citizen engagement and participation in the democratic process.
Political polarization: Political polarization refers to the growing ideological distance and division between political parties and their supporters, often leading to extreme partisanship and a lack of compromise. This phenomenon can result in a fragmented political landscape where opposing sides are unwilling to engage with one another, affecting governance and social cohesion.
Public Consultations: Public consultations are processes through which governments and organizations engage with citizens to gather their opinions, feedback, and preferences regarding policies, projects, or decisions. These consultations allow for public participation in governance and can lead to more informed decision-making by incorporating diverse viewpoints into the political process.
Social media: Social media refers to digital platforms and tools that enable users to create, share, and engage with content online. It has transformed how individuals communicate and participate in political discussions, providing a space for activism, information sharing, and mobilization on a global scale.
Technological Determinism: Technological determinism is the theory that technology is a primary driver of social change, influencing how individuals and societies operate. It suggests that technological advancements shape cultural values, political structures, and human behavior, often emphasizing a linear relationship where technology dictates the direction of societal development.