Deepening democracy through a social movement: Networks, information rights, and online and offline activism

Relly, Jeannine E. and Pakanati, Rajdeep (2020) Deepening democracy through a social movement: Networks, information rights, and online and offline activism. International Journal of Communication, 14. pp. 4760-4780. ISSN 19328036

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Abstract

This research studied the dynamics of online and offline activism among networks of organizations and social activists across India involved in the globally recognized Right to Information movement. Our overarching research question examined how a network of organizations and activists grew global, national, and local collective action strength, outreach capacity, and recognition for their grassroots innovations online and offline in a landscape of digital inequality. This qualitative study, which used a purposive sample of activists and organization representatives (N = 72) and supplementary data, found that online activism increased in recent years; yet, the movement conducted most of its campaigns offline, with social media used to exercise geographic reach, amplify messaging, and pressure government and corporate interests. The movement built collective strength online and offline through unifying cross-cutting campaigns, innovations, and cross-network alliances with diverse constituents. It also sustained initiatives that built broad-based inclusive relationships across Indian society that became known around the world.

Item Type: Article
Keywords: Information Rights | Social Movements | Online and Offline Activism | India | Digital Inequality
Subjects: Social Sciences and humanities > Social Sciences > Human Rights
JGU School/Centre: Jindal School of International Affairs
Depositing User: Amees Mohammad
Date Deposited: 28 Dec 2021 05:38
Last Modified: 28 Dec 2021 05:38
Official URL: https://ijoc.org/index.php/ijoc/article/view/11575...
URI: https://pure.jgu.edu.in/id/eprint/417

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