The Arab uprising 2011: new media in the hands of a new generation in North Africa

Abstract

PurposeThis aim of this paper is to relate the spread of new information and communications technology in Arab countries to the mobilization of young Tunisians and Egyptians in the uprisings of 2011.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on the literature to discuss the opportunities the new social media tools brought to Arab societies, in terms of their potential to enable new forms of communication and develop new public spheres. It provides an overview of the relationship between the new media, a new generation and the uprising for democracy and political changes in North Africa.FindingsThe conclusion is that the spread and use of new information and communications technologies is having an enormous impact on societal and political changes in North Africa.Originality/valueBased on the uprisings in parts of North Africa, the paper examines the use of the internet and mobile phones as tools for building democracy and bringing change. Evidence shows that social media played a major role in bringing down long‐standing dictatorships. The new media challenged government imposed media controls and provided activists with new tools for organising demonstrations, sending updates to journalists, bloggers and other activists, and encouraging media coverage.