Tweeting democracy the power of 280 characters: twitter ́s challenges and opportunities (X) for the Open Goverment

Keywords: Twitter, democracy, government communications, Open Government

Abstract

In the face of the growing and widespread use of Twitter as a tool for government communications, it is relevant to explore its relationship with the development of the Open Government. This article examines the technical, political, and social implications of Twitter in Open Government policies through a methodology that combines theoretical re!ection and analysis of secondary sources. It focuses on analyzing the dimensions of Twitter as a social network, niche communication medium, and public opinion space. It becomes evident that Twitter presents both challenges and opportunities for the Open Government, as it offers greater visibility and transparency while also generating dynamics of polarization and disinformation that fuel post-truth. Furthermore, it is highlighted that Twitter plays a signi"cant role in shaping the political agenda and public opinion, albeit not presenting itself as a rational public sphere. Consequently, addressing these challenges and leveraging the opportunities offered by Twitter is essential for strengthening the Open Government within different conceptions of democracy in the digital era.”

Author Biographies

Juan Federico Pino Uribe, Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales - Flacso Ecuador

Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales (Flacso), Ecuador.

Liliana María Gómez Céspedes , Pontificia Universidad Javeriana

Liliana María Gómez Céspedes, PhD in Information and Communication Sciences from Paris 2 Panthéon Assas University, and professor in the Master's program in Political Communication

Andrés Lombana Bermúdez, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. Colombia

Andrés Lombana holds a Doctorate (PhD) in Media Studies from the University of Texas at Austin, a Master's degree (MSc) in Comparative Media Studies from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a degree in Political Science and Literature from the Universidad de los Andes. He is currently a professor at Universidad Javeriana.

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How to Cite
Pino Uribe, J. F., Gómez Céspedes , L. M., & Lombana Bermúdez, A. (2023). Tweeting democracy the power of 280 characters: twitter ́s challenges and opportunities (X) for the Open Goverment. Reflexión Política, 25(52), 23–38. https://doi.org/10.29375/01240781.4741

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Published
2023-12-30

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