Social media as a new source of empowerment in Algeria

Abstract

Media pluralism exists in Algeria in the official texts but in practice there is still a situation of disrespect for fundamental news values, media ethics and independence. The media have not objectively met the public’s needs and expectations because of political interferences and commercial pressures. The results are a big public shift to social media, considered as a new source of news, empowerment and press freedom. The chapter describes and analyses how social media are gaining more ground, credibility and popularity by offering platforms and spaces to speak out on public affairs. Algeria has since the 22nd of February 2019 embarked on a series of street demonstrations and protests. Protesters brandish one of the slogans: ‘from platforms, blogs and websites to the street, to reality’. It is a pertinent indication that social media is having an impact on real political and social life in Algeria. New social media users and followers are empowering themselves using new tools to exert pressure and influence on everyday political events and ultimately on the future constitutional agenda of the country.