Over the past decade, Oman has witnessed a significant transformation in civic engagement and public-government collaboration, driven largely by the adoption of digital tools and social media platforms. This shift has redefined communication, governance, and public discourse in the country, fostering new forms of interaction between citizens and government officials.
The widespread use of mobile phones initially changed how Omanis communicated, evolving from personal devices to essential tools for public discourse and engagement. My research in Oman has highlighted that these devices now serve as critical gateways to the digital world, facilitating connections and interactions not only within social and academic spheres but also with the government.
As Omanis have embraced the Internet, platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (X) have opened new avenues for expression and public engagement. Social media in fact has broken down traditional barriers, enabling more direct, informal, and immediate interactions between citizens and their government. This digital revolution has empowered Omanis to participate actively in the development of their country by amplifying their voices and advocating for change.
WhatsApp, in particular, has become a key platform for public discourse. During the Covid-19 pandemic, WhatsApp stickers emerged as tools for raising awareness and supporting public health campaigns, illustrating how digital platforms can facilitate community resilience and government collaboration. Additionally, Omani teachers in 2013 used WhatsApp to coordinate educational activities and engage in discussions on broader societal issues, influencing policy decisions and driving social change. Twitter (X) has also played a crucial role in digital activism, providing a space for Omanis to express opinions, critique public policies, and engage in socio-political discourse. Through hashtags and memes, citizens have bypassed traditional media channels, advocating for social change and contributing to nation-building.
Social media has not only empowered citizens but also facilitated new connections with government officials, allowing for more transparent and immediate interactions. During the Covid-19 pandemic, this dynamic was particularly evident, as citizens actively supported government efforts through innovative actions like creating Covid-19 WhatsApp stickers. Social media has also enabled Omanis to hold officials accountable, with ministries involving the public in decision-making processes through online questionnaires, reflecting a strengthened relationship between citizens and their government.
My recent research (co-authored with a Omani colleague) has further highlighted the role of social media in civic engagement, identifying four main types of digital civic activities: reforming services, preserving cultural norms, disseminating knowledge, and promoting Omani products and tourism. These activities contribute to the public good, community building, and policy implementation, showcasing the potential of social media to drive social change and public-government collaboration.
Despite the positive impact of social media, challenges remain. Digital literacy is a significant issue, particularly in rural areas, where segments of the population lack proper access to technology or the skills to use it effectively. This digital divide limits the potential of social media as a tool for empowerment.
Furthermore, the risks of misinformation and harmful content pose challenges to public opinion and decision-making, underscoring the need for promoting digital literacy and critical thinking. While social media has opened new channels for communication between citizens and government officials, there is a need for more formal mechanisms for public participation in decision-making processes. Social media should complement, rather than replace, traditional forms of civic engagement.
As Oman continues to navigate the digital age, social media will remain a crucial force in shaping public-government relations. Over the past decade, these platforms have transformed communication, civic engagement, and governance in Oman, fostering transparency and accountability. To ensure that social media continues to serve as a positive force for social change, it is essential to address its challenges and limitations by promoting digital literacy, combating misinformation, and developing more inclusive governance. Through these efforts, Oman can continue to leverage the power of social media to create a more engaged, informed, and empowered society.
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