YOUTH ACTIVISM ON THE RISE: CAN THEY TRANSLATE ONLINE ENGAGEMENT INTO POLITICAL CHANGE?

In the bustling streets of Lagos, Nigeria, a young woman named Amaka stood at the forefront of a protest that would echo throughout the nation. Amaka, a university student, had grown tired of the pervasive corruption and lack of accountability in her country. Fueled by a fervent desire for change, she took to social media to rally her peers. Through Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, she shared powerful messages, organized meetings, and disseminated information. The movement, sparked by the tragic death of a young man at the hands of the police, quickly gained momentum, culminating in what would become known as the #EndSARS movement-a youth-led protest against police brutality.

The #EndSARS movement is a prime example of how youth activism, galvanized by online engagement, can erupt into significant political action. Around the world, young people are increasingly leveraging digital platforms to voice their discontent and push for societal change. The question remains, however: can this online engagement truly translate into sustained political change?

The rise of digital technology has provided young activists with unprecedented tools to mobilize, educate, and organize. Social media platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram allow for the rapid dissemination of information, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling a global discourse. For many youths, the internet has become a space where they can amplify their voices, share personal stories, and connect with like-minded individuals.

The effectiveness of these platforms was evident during the Arab Spring, where social media played a crucial role in organizing protests and disseminating information across Tunisia, Egypt, and beyond. Similarly, the climate strikes spearheaded by Greta Thunberg saw millions of young people take to the streets, all organized through online platforms. In these instances, digital engagement was not merely a tool for communication but a catalyst for action.

However, translating online engagement into tangible political change is fraught with challenges. One major hurdle is the ephemeral nature of social media trends. Hashtags and online movements can gain traction rapidly but may also fade just as quickly. The fast-paced nature of digital platforms often means that maintaining momentum is difficult. For instance, the initial fervor of the #BlackLivesMatter movement in 2020 saw significant online and offline participation, but sustaining long-term engagement proved challenging as media attention shifted to other issues.

Moreover, there is the question of actual policy change. While online activism can raise awareness and put pressure on policymakers, the transition from digital dissent to concrete legislative or institutional change is complex. In Nigeria, despite the massive turnout and international attention garnered by the #EndSARS protests, systemic change within the police force has been slow, and many activists continue to face intimidation and harassment.

Nevertheless, there are instances where sustained online engagement has led to substantial political outcomes. In the United States, the March for Our Lives movement, born out of the tragic school shooting in Parkland, Florida, leveraged social media to mobilize young people and advocate for stricter gun control laws. Their persistent efforts resulted in tangible policy changes in various states and a national conversation around gun violence.

The success of youth activism in the digital age often hinges on the ability to bridge the gap between online engagement and offline action. Building coalitions, maintaining a clear and consistent message, and ensuring sustained pressure on policymakers are crucial. The synergy between online platforms and traditional forms of protest, rallies, petitions, and lobbying is where the potential for real change lies.

For youth activism to truly translate into political change, there needs to be a focus on long-term strategy rather than short-term gains. Educating young activists on the intricacies of policymaking, fostering leadership skills, and creating networks of support are essential steps. Organizations that provide training and resources can play a pivotal role in this regard, helping to convert digital activism into effective political advocacy.

Moreover, the role of allies and mentors cannot be overstated. Experienced activists and sympathetic policymakers can guide young leaders, helping them navigate the often-treacherous waters of political engagement. By combining the energy and creativity of youth with the wisdom and experience of seasoned advocates, movements can achieve a greater impact.

In conclusion, the rise of youth activism, propelled by online engagement, holds significant promise for political change. While challenges remain, the potential for young people to drive societal transformation is immense. By learning from past movements, building sustainable strategies, and forging strong alliances, today’s youth activists can indeed turn their digital fervor into lasting political achievements. The story of Amaka and the #EndSARS movement is but one chapter in an ongoing narrative of young people striving to reshape their world.