The Janus Face of Social Media in Myanmar

Abstract

New technologies always open doors for new activities and that with the greatest socio-political impact in early 21st century are the internet and social media. The Arab Spring in 2011 proved more than any other revolution before its great potential when the social media offered the people an easy way getting connected, organizing protest marches, and supporting movements. Hence, they are associated with a positive image being a ‘motor for democratization,’ promising freedom of speech. However, what happens if social media is used to promote racism, hatred and evil propaganda instead?