Digital Democracy

Ever wonder why TiKToK became so popular so fast? Are we just obsessed with finding something to detracts us, or does the genuine need get blinded by the digital noise? The rise of social media and demand for always being online is changing the very nature of engagement.

The idea that some combination of technology and a new generation is redefining politics is not new—the same thing happened with the radio, and later with television. But social media, in particular, has brought unique changes. Digital democracy has been around since year 2000. This means my daughters’ generation has a special role to play in figuring out how these platforms get used.

With the 2021 municipal elections just taken place [remove highlighted – due to when printed will be post 2nd ], focus has shifted into how technology can aid upcoming national election. Imagine a world where fair, secure and transparent voting process is possible. My first recall of the power of using the internet and social media as political tools began last summer, where a texted idea. “I think I may have something,” drastically changed into, an hour and a half later, being a published idea as an online petition. Coordination over Google Docs, talked with reporters and alumni over Zoom, and a shared the petition on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Within a week, it had more than 8,700 signatures, and was cited in the Washington Post, and propelled a virtual meeting with the alumni council. Yes, the George Floyd reawakening call, that soon reshaped the election that followed.

Unfortunately, it’s a feeling that’s still too rare, even for young generation. Young citizens’ opinions are rarely consulted in social or political matters, even though digital platforms have provided us with a voice and a way of expressing it earlier in life (an estimated 81% of teenagers 13 to 17 are now active on at least one social media site). That may stem from a feeling that our voices don’t matter because we cannot vote until we turn 18. But most of generation Z will be able to by the next presidential election in 2024, if not sooner, with help of technology.

Digital platforms have the potential to redefine engagement and allow the opinions of both young and old people to play a deeper role in policymaking. With undertone of AI and Blockchain directing the flow. As generation Z speaks out online, the lawmakers who are shaping our future will need to figure out how best to listen to those of us who will live in it. Otherwise, young people’s enthusiasm for politics could dry up. At a time when our trust in government is nearing historic lows, the future of political participation is at stake.

Over the past decade, political discussions have migrated from water coolers and dinner tables to smartphones and social media.?

Here are just some of the ways technology can dramatically change the race for the presidency in a short period of time: (for generation Z and the candidates alike)

1. Digital Voice - Social influence Social Media companies have transformed the way candidates interact. Ten years ago, campaigns were drastically different. Today, social media gives candidates a direct line of communication to the people. The flip side is, social media can become an uncontrolled, democratized soap box where individuals can spread opinions that are not substantiated, which can change the public’s view of a candidate overnight.

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2. Digital Security - Threat of virality During an election, candidates are under the microscope, but new technology allows the media to watch them more closely. Social media runs in?real time and with the variety of channels, plus re-runs with memes. Once something hits the web, it stays there forever. The assumption there is always someone with a smartphone, camera, microphone,?or other recording device capturing their actions to share with the world. Nothing is off limits. South African politicians may very well be familiar with this space.

3. Digital Foresight - Smarter campaigns With the rise of big data and analytics, candidates can now understand much more deeply what’s working and what’s not in their campaigns. With this information, campaigns become more effective and can be tailored to garner the votes, funds or public opinion needed from a particular region or constituency.

4. Digital Inclusion - New issues Candidates who don’t use technology, won’t be taken seriously. Understanding new technologies and trends is now a key part of connecting and driving better future with voters.

Biometric registration is just the first step. The question of whether voters will be able to vote electronically or via the traditional methods is of interest for political leaders, technology innovators and voters alike. An electronic voting system like other automated information systems must be judged on several criteria including how well its design provides for security, accuracy, ease of use, and efficiency. But the benefits it could bring are undeniable.

The technology that powers the next elections within the continent, if anything based upon previous countries attempts, will be around data collection for ‘use of your vote. Similar to, technology titans personalised advertising, voice activated pop-ups.

Campaign elections have always been about data, even underneath the empathic promise, the personalisation to fix your problems and fight for your family. Surf the web like the freedom fighter your are, while bouncing between the ethical frameworks

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