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Digital Activism: The Power of a Click to Change the World

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One click, one hashtag. These small actions have sparked major changes, revealing the new possibilities of the digital age. The internet and social media have evolved beyond mere communication tools—they are now powerful instruments driving social and political change. Digital activism is the bridge that carries our voices to the world and the force that helps us shape the future.

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#FreeBritney: How My Click Created Social Change

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(Source: Variety)

"Your hashtag can help grant someone their freedom!"

In 2021, the hashtag #FreeBritney became an iconic example of digital activism. The campaign exposed how pop star Britney Spears had been under an unfair conservatorship for 13 years and called for her freedom. What began as a fan movement quickly turned into a social justice campaign.

Fans used Instagram and TikTok to spread the message with the #FreeBritney hashtag, and the movement gained global attention, especially after The New York Times documentary Framing Britney Spears. As a result, the court ruled in November 2021 to grant Britney her freedom. This movement not only secured her rights but also raised awareness about conservatorship laws, leaving Gen Z with a powerful message: "Our voices can change the world."

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What is Digital Activism?

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(Source: The Guantlet)

Digital activism refers to all activities that use the internet and social media to create social and political change. The United Nations (UN) defines it as “a tool for advancing the public good, solving social issues, and amplifying individual voices through technology and information.”

Simply put: Digital activism is like a traffic light that directs the world’s attention to important issues. Hashtags, likes, shares, and petitions are all part of this movement.

How to Participate:

• Share your interests on Instagram with hashtags.

• Sign petitions on platforms like Change.org.

• Join environmental or human rights challenges on TikTok.

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Different Forms of Digital Activism

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(Source: Medium)

Digital activism comes in many forms, from hashtag movements and online petitions to digital boycotts and even hacktivism.

1️⃣ Hashtag Movements: 

Using social media to raise awareness about specific topics. Example: #BlackLivesMatter

2️⃣ Online Petitions & Fundraising:

 Campaigns on platforms like Change.org and GoFundMe.

3️⃣ Digital Boycotts: 

Encouraging ethical consumption by rejecting unethical brands. Example: #StopHateForProfit

4️⃣ Hacktivism: 

Using tech skills to challenge unjust power structures.

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The Present and Potential of Digital Activism

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According to the UN’s Digital Cooperation Report, digital technology plays a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A survey found that 70% of internet users worldwide have experienced some form of social or political change through digital platforms.

Impact in Numbers:

In 2023 alone, digital campaigns led to significant policy changes in over 45 countries. According to the Pew Research Center, over 50% of global internet users have participated in at least one digital campaign.

※ Successful Digital Activism Cases ※

Fridays for Future: 

Greta Thunberg’s climate movement mobilized over 75 million people worldwide.

(Source: The Conversation)

Black Lives Matter: 

After George Floyd’s death, the movement generated 20 million hashtag shares and raised $47 million for racial justice initiatives.

(Source: The New Yorker)

#BringBackOurGirls:

 The 2014 campaign brought global attention to the kidnapping of Nigerian schoolgirls by Boko Haram, 

leading to international intervention and the rescue of some victims.

(Source: NBC News)

Thus, digital activism goes beyond mere participation and becomes a powerful force for real change.

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Digital Activism for Peace

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Digital activism is also a powerful tool in conflict and crisis situations. Social media gives people a platform to amplify their voices and shed light on injustices.

The Arab Spring: A Revolution Sparked by Social Media

(Source: NPR)

"A single story shared from your fingertips can change the fate of a nation."

In the early 2010s, the Arab Spring demonstrated the power of digital activism. Citizens used Facebook and Twitter to expose government corruption and human rights violations.

Key Moments:

• Social media has evolved beyond a mere communication tool into a powerful weapon against oppressive regimes.

• In Tunisia, a street vendor’s self-immolation sparked national outrage, leading to a government overthrow.

• In Egypt, the Tahrir Square protests gained worldwide attention through social media, ultimately toppling a dictatorship.

The Syrian Civil War: Voices from the Ground

(Source: China Daily)

"A single photo captured on your phone can change the world."

Since 2011, digital activism has played a crucial role in documenting the Syrian civil war. Ordinary citizens used Twitter and YouTube to share images and videos from conflict zones, attracting international attention.

Key Cases:

• In 2013, a chemical attack in Ghouta killed hundreds. Citizen journalists uploaded videos to expose the war crimes.

• Digital activism helped break media restrictions and inform the world about humanitarian crises.

Russia-Ukraine War: #StandWithUkraine and Global Solidarity

(Source: NPR)

"Your hashtag can start a global movement."

In 2022, #StandWithUkraine became more than just a trend—it mobilized worldwide support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion.

Digital Activism’s Impact:

• Influenced international aid and donations for Ukraine.

• Increased political pressure on global leaders.

• The "StandWithUkraine" initiative helped civilians and soldiers by providing practical support.

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Challenges of Digital Activism

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The power of digital activism is remarkable, but it also comes with challenges. These include the risk of mere symbolic support, known as ‘slacktivism,’ the spread of misinformation, and the ‘echo chamber’ effect caused by algorithms. To overcome these issues, digital literacy education and the establishment of international ethical standards are essential.

Key Issues:

• Slacktivism: Online support does not always translate into real-world action.

• Misinformation: False information can spread rapidly.

• Echo Chambers: Algorithms reinforce users’ existing beliefs by filtering content.

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Change Begins at Your Fingertips

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Digital activism proves that even small actions can bring about significant change. A single hashtag, a single click—these simple gestures can spark movements that reshape society. We all have the power to be agents of change. Remember, the tiny light sparked by our fingertips can shine brightly to dispel the darkness in the world.

“Digital technology is a key tool for peace and prosperity in the new era.”

- António Guterres, UN Secretary-General -

Written by: Sharon Choi

Director of Planning

Sunhak Peace Prize Secretariat