In the dynamic landscape of global democracy, technology emerges as a powerful tool for empowerment and engagement, particularly among youth and marginalized communities. Recent initiatives in Indonesia and Colombia showcase how innovative approaches are reshaping the political and social fabric of these nations.
Indonesia: Harnessing Technology for Political Education
In the bustling democracy of Indonesia, a nation boasting 107 million voters, the challenge of youth engagement in politics looms large. Despite over half of the electorate being under 40, a mere 8% identified as politically engaged during the 2024 elections.
Andhyta Firselly Utami, a former environmental economist, recognized this gap and founded “Bijak Memilih” (Vote Wisely) to bridge it. This initiative aimed to provide accessible and relevant political education to voters, especially the youth, enabling them to make informed choices at the ballot box.
Utami’s team leveraged technology, social media, and offline forums to disseminate digestible information, incorporating memes and the latest trends to capture attention. Their efforts bore fruit, attracting 1.4 million unique website visitors aged between 17 and 40. Moreover, 29% of participants felt more optimistic about Indonesian politics, while 41% of first-time voters aimed for deeper political engagement.
Global Lessons and Challenges
The success of initiatives like Bijak Memilih underscores the importance of accessible information and intergenerational collaboration in fostering a healthy democracy. Utami advocates for similar movements globally, especially in countries with a high percentage of young voters, to enhance understanding of election behavior and promote civic engagement.
However, challenges persist, particularly in the Global South. Transparency and the availability of meaningful information remain fundamental hurdles in nations like Indonesia. A plethora of information, often dominated by viral content on social media, can obscure critical issues, influencing voter decisions.
Colombia: Amplifying Women’s Voices in the Amazon
Meanwhile, in the verdant expanses of Colombia’s Amazon region, technology is amplifying the voices of women who have long been marginalized from political and social discourse. Since the signing of the peace deal with FARC guerrillas in 2016, women-led organizations have surged in prominence.
Sociologist Lorena Romero Leal has been at the forefront of this movement, investigating the rise of indigenous and non-indigenous women’s organizations in the Colombian Amazon. Her research led to the creation of a ‘geoviewer,’ highlighting over 50 indigenous women’s organizations and women’s groups selected as part of the “Women Caregivers of the Amazon” project.
The geoviewer serves as a powerful tool for making visible the often-overlooked contributions of women to the social, cultural, and environmental fabric of the Amazon region. By mapping these organizations, Leal aims to empower women and foster greater recognition of their roles in shaping the future of the Amazon.
Toward Inclusive Democracies
As Indonesia and Colombia exemplify, technology holds immense potential for democratization and social change. By harnessing digital tools and grassroots initiatives, nations can empower marginalized voices, engage youth, and foster a more inclusive political landscape.
Yet, challenges persist, from the need for greater transparency and access to information to overcoming entrenched apathy and disengagement. However, with dedication and innovation, the path toward vibrant and inclusive democracies appears within reach, one initiative at a time.
