Social Media's Democratic Footprint: A Review of Political Participation Trends

Garda Nusantara; Kinkin Yuliaty Subarsa

doi:10.37535/105004220255

Authors

Garda Nusantara State University of Jakarta
Kinkin Yuliaty Subarsa State University of Jakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37535/105004220255

Keywords:

Social Media, Politic Participation, Digital Era

Abstract

This literature review examines social media's role in increasing public political engagement in the digital era, synthesizing 17 scientific sources from the last five years. Digital transformation has reshaped political participation, fostering faster, more open, and decentralized interactions. The study explores five key themes: the theoretical basis of political participation, mechanisms for increasing engagement through social media (e.g., shaping public opinion via digital platforms and phenomena like "Emergency Warning"), digital mobilization strategies of political figures (illustrated by the "Anies Bubble" discourse and its use of symbols and narratives), the impact of information technology on political communication and elite-public interaction, and the challenges and opportunities of digital democracy, including disinformation, polarization, and digital literacy gaps. Findings indicate social media's strategic role in promoting broader political participation. However, realizing its full potential necessitates robust digital literacy, adaptive regulations, and responsible platform governance to enhance the quality of digital democracy.

Author Biographies

Garda Nusantara, State University of Jakarta

Garda Nusantara is a 20-year-old man born in Jakarta on July 26, 2004. He graduated from Al Kamal High School with outstanding academic performance. He is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies at Jakarta State University. With a strong passion for learning, Garda aspires to develop his communications skills and contribute to the media world and the wider community.
Kinkin Yuliaty Subarsa, State University of Jakarta

Dr. Kinkin Yuliaty Subarsa Putri, S.Sos., M.Si is a permanent lecturer in the Communication Studies Program, Faculty of Social Sciences, Jakarta State University. She completed her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the University of Indonesia in Communication Studies, and earned her doctorate (S-3) in Communication Studies from Padjadjaran University. Her scientific focus includes media literacy, health communication, and public communication. She actively researches and publishes articles in accredited national journals and reputable international journals such as Heliyon, IJIRSS, and Studies in Media and Communication, and has also written around 23 books and received research grants from the Ministry of Research, Technology, and Higher Education. Currently, she is also involved as a peer reviewer in several national and international scientific journals.

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