Media Pluralism and Democracy: A case Study of the 2017 Somaliland Elections
Haboon Jibril is a senior student at Georgetown majoring in International Politics and pursuing a Certificate in Media and Politics. Her research interest lies in the security dynamics of Global South states, and the processes of nation-building and peace in states not recognized on the international stage, including de facto states. Below is the abstract of her capstone project:
This paper explores the impact of social media on the democratization process in Somaliland, emphasizing its role in promoting political pluralism and democracy. Through a case study approach, it investigates how platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook contributed to a more informed electorate and facilitated political engagement. The study highlights Somaliland’s unique position as a de facto state striving for international recognition and how social media platforms serve both local and global audiences, showcasing Somaliland’s democratic aspirations. The research finds that social media played a crucial role in the electoral process by enabling direct communication between candidates, parties, and voters, and by projecting a diverse image of Somaliland’s political landscape to the international community. However, the paper also notes the challenges posed by social media, including the spread of misinformation and government interference. The findings contribute to the broader discussion on the role of digital platforms in supporting democratic governance and political pluralism, offering insights into the potential of social media in electoral contexts, especially in regions with similar political and social dynamics.
Faculty Mentor: Prof. Gerd Nonneman
Thesis: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zPLzFKy3yErn0gOS6ZN_xM8OutLh70vy/view?usp=sharing
