Farzana Hoque
Over the last decade, Bangladesh has seen a massive shift in how its people communicate, interact, and make decisions. Social media has become a crucial part of this transformation, influencing everything from politics to social movements. With nearly 200 million mobile phone users and over 100 million internet subscribers, it is clear that the digital revolution in Bangladesh is well underway. As the world becomes more interconnected, social media has risen to the forefront, playing a critical role in shaping public opinion, politics, and social change.
Social media: A game-changer for communication
In recent years, platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have exploded in popularity in Bangladesh. The younger generation, often referred to as “digital natives,” has turned social media into more than just a way to stay in touch; it is now a space for entertainment, influence, and activism. Affordable mobile internet has made social media more accessible, especially to the youth, who make up a significant portion of the country’s population.
Among these platforms, Facebook stands out as the most popular in Bangladesh, with millions logging in daily. For many people, social media is the first place they go for news and updates, giving them quick access to both local and global events.
Politics in the digital age
Social media has changed politics in Bangladesh by giving ordinary people an easy way to share their opinions, question the government, and support important issues. It has brought politicians and the public closer together, making it easier for them to communicate directly. Now, politicians use social media to connect with voters more easily, instead of relying on traditional media.
The 2018 national elections in Bangladesh were a turning point in how social media influences politics. Political parties used Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to connect with voters, share their manifestos, and promote their candidates. Ads targeted specific groups using data analytics, helping parties tailor their messages to different demographics.
However, this new digital space has also brought challenges, such as the spread of misinformation, fake news, and hate speech, particularly during elections. The ease with which anyone can share content has led to the rapid spread of propaganda, and the lack of regulation has made it difficult to hold people accountable for what they say online.
Despite these challenges, social media remains a powerful tool in Bangladesh. It has raised political awareness, especially among the youth, and sparked movements and protests that gained momentum through viral hashtags and posts. Social media has even been used to challenge authoritarianism, with people demanding government accountability and social justice.
Social media as a catalyst
Beyond politics, social media has become a vehicle for social change in Bangladesh. Topics such as women’s rights, climate change, and education are being widely discussed on digital platforms, giving grassroots movements a chance to be heard. The #MeToo movement, for example, has found a strong voice among Bangladeshi women, with many using social media to share their stories of sexual harassment and demand safer environments.
Social media has also been key in raising awareness about marginalised communities. Issues such as the rights of the Rohingya refugees and the fight for greater representation of ethnic minorities have gained visibility thanks to the power of digital platforms, which give these often-silent voices the chance to be heard far and wide.
One of the most powerful examples of social media’s role in driving social change occurred during the 2018 student protests in Dhaka. After a tragic road accident that killed two students, thousands of young people took to the streets, demanding safer roads. The protests were organised and amplified on social media, gaining widespread attention and eventually forcing the government to take action. This movement, led by the youth, showed how digital activism could spark change.
Challenges of inclusivity and access
While social media has brought about significant progress, it also highlights the digital divide in Bangladesh. While internet access is growing, large parts of the population—especially in rural areas—still have limited access to the digital world. Challenges such as the cost of smartphones, slow internet speeds, and low literacy rates make it hard for many to participate in the digital conversation.
This divide is also clear in the skills needed to use technology. For example, older generations often struggle with social media, making it hard for them to join digital conversations. This creates a gap between those who can engage online and those who cannot.
Additionally, the government’s attempts to regulate social media have raised concerns about freedom of expression. In recent years, Bangladesh has seen increased censorship of online content, with authorities blocking websites and arresting people for allegedly posting content that is deemed defamatory or politically sensitive. The Digital Security Act of 2018 has been criticised for stifling free speech, as it allows the government to prosecute people for online posts that are seen as harmful to the state.
The future of Bangladesh’s digital transformation
As Bangladesh continues to move towards a more digital future, social media will remain a key player in shaping its political and social landscape. The growing influence of social media among the youth promises to reshape politics and activism, offering opportunities for greater transparency, engagement, and accountability. However, challenges such as misinformation, censorship, and the digital divide must be addressed to ensure that social media remains a force for good.
As the country continues its digital journey, the potential for social media to drive change is immense. From transforming political communication to empowering social movements, Bangladesh’s digital transformation will undoubtedly play a major role in shaping the future of its society.
In conclusion, while social media offers new opportunities for public engagement, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed. By embracing the benefits of digital platforms and working to mitigate the risks, Bangladesh can continue its progress towards becoming a more connected, informed, and progressive nation in the digital age.
source : Daily Star
