The Vanishing Vigil: Why Online Activism is Increasingly Scrubbed – and What it Means for Future Protests
Just twelve people. That’s roughly how many attendees a Nairobi vigil for slain LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Chiloba drew after two venues abruptly cancelled hosting it. But the low turnout wasn’t the most telling detail; it was the subsequent deletion of promotional posts by the event organizers that sparked a wider conversation. This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a symptom of a growing trend: the increasing pressure – both overt and subtle – to silence online and offline activism, and a chilling effect on future organizing.
The Pressure to Disappear: Beyond Venue Cancellations
The Nairobi vigil’s story highlights a multi-layered problem. While venue cancellations are a direct form of suppression, the deletion of online promotion suggests a deeper fear of repercussions. Organizers likely faced pressure from authorities, or even anticipated backlash from conservative groups, leading them to actively erase evidence of the event. This self-censorship is arguably more damaging than outright bans, as it normalizes the idea that dissent should be hidden. This phenomenon extends beyond Kenya, mirroring patterns observed in countries with increasingly restrictive digital spaces.
The Role of Social Media Algorithms and Reporting
Social media platforms themselves aren’t neutral actors. Algorithms can downrank or suppress content deemed “sensitive” or “controversial,” effectively limiting its reach. Furthermore, coordinated reporting campaigns – often orchestrated by politically motivated groups – can lead to the removal of posts or even entire accounts. A 2022 report by the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto documented how Iranian dissidents were targeted with mass reporting on Instagram, leading to account suspensions. This tactic is increasingly being adopted globally.
Government Influence and Digital Authoritarianism
Direct government intervention is another key factor. Many governments are enacting laws that grant them greater control over online content, often under the guise of combating misinformation or protecting national security. These laws are frequently used to stifle dissent and target activists. The increasing sophistication of surveillance technologies also allows authorities to identify and monitor organizers, creating a climate of fear. The chilling effect is palpable: activists are becoming more cautious about their online activities, using encrypted messaging apps and pseudonyms to protect themselves.
The Impact on Future Activism: From Visibility to Resilience
The suppression of events like the Nairobi vigil has significant implications for the future of activism. Reduced visibility makes it harder to mobilize support, build momentum, and raise awareness about important issues. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of protest. Instead, it’s driving a shift towards more decentralized, resilient, and technologically sophisticated forms of organizing.
The Rise of Decentralized Networks and Encrypted Communication
Activists are increasingly relying on decentralized networks – platforms that are less vulnerable to censorship and control – and encrypted communication tools to coordinate their activities. Signal, Telegram, and other secure messaging apps are becoming essential for organizing protests and sharing information. This shift requires a higher level of digital literacy and a willingness to adopt new technologies, but it also offers greater protection against surveillance and repression.
Focus on Offline Organizing and Community Building
While online activism remains important, there’s a renewed emphasis on offline organizing and community building. Direct engagement with communities, grassroots campaigns, and face-to-face interactions are becoming increasingly crucial for building trust, fostering solidarity, and mobilizing support. This approach is less susceptible to online censorship and allows activists to connect with people who may not be active online.
The Importance of Digital Security Training
Digital security training is becoming an essential skill for activists. Learning how to protect their online accounts, encrypt their communications, and avoid surveillance is crucial for mitigating the risks associated with online activism. Organizations like Access Now offer valuable resources and training programs to help activists stay safe online.
The story of the vanishing vigil in Nairobi is a stark reminder that the fight for freedom of expression is far from over. As governments and other actors continue to exert pressure on online and offline activism, it’s crucial for activists to adapt, innovate, and build resilient networks that can withstand censorship and repression. The future of protest will likely be characterized by a blend of decentralized digital strategies and robust offline organizing, all underpinned by a commitment to digital security and a willingness to protect the right to dissent. What strategies will prove most effective in navigating this increasingly complex landscape?
