Political Participation in the Age of Social Media: Trends, Challenges, and Implications

Authors

  • Muhammad Ahsan Department of Media Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore

Keywords:

Political Participation, Social Media, Civic Engagement, Digital Democracy

Abstract

The rise of social media has significantly transformed political participation, reshaping the ways citizens engage in civic life, activism, and policy discourse. This paper examines the trends, challenges, and implications of social media-driven political participation in Pakistan and globally. It highlights how platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram facilitate mobilization, debate, and advocacy while also exposing users to misinformation, polarization, and surveillance. Through a combination of theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence, this study analyzes the changing nature of political engagement, emphasizing the role of digital literacy, regulatory frameworks, and inclusive participation strategies.

References

Ahmad, N. R. (2025). AI-enabled public governance in developing states: Service delivery gains, accountability risks, and a practical risk-based regulatory model. https://doi.org/10.52152/wja5db40

Irk, E. (2025). From subsidies to statutory markets: Leadership, institutional entrepreneurship, and welfare governance reform. https://doi.org/10.52152/s59sjh53

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Published

2025-12-31