What kind of civic culture are we building in the age of social media? Today, almost every public issue becomes a trend, a hashtag, or a viral post. News travels instantly, and young people often learn about social, political, and community issues through their screens before encountering them anywhere else. Social media has undoubtedly transformed the way citizens engage with public affairs. But once a trend fades from our feeds, what remains? The real question is whether social media is creating informed audiences or active citizens.
Before citizens can act on an issue, they must first be aware of it. In that regard, social media has become a powerful tool. It can spread information to millions within hours and has opened new avenues for political discussion and civic engagement.
However, exposure to information does not automatically translate into meaningful civic participation. In many cases, the flood of information also brings misinformation, confusion, and superficial engagement. The phenomenon known as "clicktivism"-liking, sharing, reposting, changing profile pictures, or using hashtags to support a cause-can create the impression of participation without requiring any real commitment. While these actions help raise awareness, they do not necessarily contribute to solving persistent social problems.
The distinction between an audience and a citizen is important. An audience consumes information, reacts emotionally, and moves on to the next issue. A citizen, on the other hand, verifies information, participates in community activities, volunteers, donates, votes, and holds institutions accountable. Social media can introduce people to public issues and inspire engagement, but it cannot replace genuine civic responsibility.
Bangladesh's democracy requires more than visibility and online activism. It requires informed citizens who are willing to engage with their communities and contribute to solving shared problems.
Mashura Showkat
Intern, Applied Democracy Lab, University of Dhaka
mashura537@gmail.com
