This document discusses the role of the internet in political dissidence in the Middle East. It notes that in 2003, McLaughlin predicted that as internet access grew around the world, internet-based political dissidence would also grow. This prediction proved accurate, as seen by the civil unrest in Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen and Syria in recent years. The document examines factors that increased internet usage such as accessibility, reduced costs and increased transparency. It also analyzes strategies used by non-state dissident groups to enact policy changes and overthrow regimes, while dealing with government censorship.

1. Web Whisperers
Jill Oviatt
August 11, 2012
Digital Democracy/Gill

2. “If you want to liberate a
country, give them the
Internet.”
Wael Ghonim,
Egyptian Google executive

3. The use of the Internet for political action by
non-state dissident actors in the Middle East
• McLaughlin published research in 2003
• Predicted with uncanny accuracy…
“As Internet access grows around the world
and diffuses to poorly connected regions, it is
likely that Internet-based political dissidence
will grow and evolve as well.”

4. And it did.
Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen, and Syria

6. Why the uptick in users?
• Internet accessible
• Reduced transaction costs
• Altered transparency (increased or decreased)
• Affordable (50 dollars for website)
• Fast transmission and tremendous reach
The downside:
• Infrastructure limitations
• Government censorship

7. Groups non-state dissidents
• Objectives
o Focused on specific policy changes
o Want to overthrow the regime
• Target Audience
o Domestic
o International
o Erode support for the government
• Captures how each group reacts to levels of censorship
• Provides powerful insights on balance between
government’s desire to maintain control and dissident’s
desire for equal rights and a free voice

8. “We are documenting
the stories of Egyptians
living in the setting of
revolution. Using video
portraits, photography,
and immersive
soundscapes to enable
ordinary Egyptians to
share their own stories
with the world.”
- Sophie Tremblay

10. Discussion
• To what extent do you think the Internet has played a
role in civil unrest?
• Why do you think non-state dissidents in Saudi
Arabia were more sophisticated in their response to
censorship than in Jordan or Egypt?
• What are your experiences with social media and
mass movements?
• McLaughlin predicted the increase of Internet use in
dissident activities. What are your predictions?

11. Thank you!!!