Netflix's "The Social Dilemma" fails to align with Africa's unique internet landscape
In a digital age, Africa is grappling with the implications of social media and the impact it has on society, democracy, and individual rights. This article explores various aspects of this complex landscape, from government regulations to concerns over privacy and disinformation.
The Ugandan government, for instance, introduced a law in July 2018 taxing over-the-top services, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and 57 other platforms, with the pretext of controlling disinformation and preventing possible violence from social media. Additionally, a $27 annual license fee for anyone broadcasting content online to the public is set to kick in soon. These measures aim to curb the spread of misinformation, but critics argue they may infringe upon freedom of speech and the right to information.
Meanwhile, the Ethiopian government is reportedly developing a version of a Chinese internet firewall to control anti-government critical voices. This move raises concerns about digital rights and privacy in the region.
The Netflix Original documentary, The Social Dilemma, focuses on the impact of social media on the world, but does not give much consideration to the 1.2 billion people in Africa. However, the continent has not been immune to the issues highlighted in the film. The virality features of social media have caused harm in Africa, such as promoting fake cures during the Ebola crisis and sparking fears of an epidemic of disinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, some argue that governments and citizens in Africa should push for redesigning algorithms to put some value-neutral constraints on virality. Network platforms that rely on user-generated content and have the potential to create virality should be taxed per unit data they collect from individuals.
However, the issue of digital rights extends beyond government regulations. The president of Uganda, once a guerilla Marxist, now shuts down the internet during elections to boost his chances. This move is criticized for limiting free speech and the ability of citizens to access information.
Moreover, the documentary The Social Dilemma criticizes Facebook, YouTube, Google, Twitter, and Snapchat for driving the deterioration of confidence in democracy around the world. It suggests four solutions: an organization to define truth on the internet, discouraging big data collection with heavy taxes, campaigning against algorithms that monitor and harvest big data at the individual level, and abolishing the platforms altogether.
In Africa, institutions like BudgIT in Nigeria use social media, particularly Twitter, as their chief distribution and engagement platform. However, this reliance on social media also exposes them to potential surveillance and data breaches. For instance, Huawei employees are accused of helping governments of Uganda and Zambia spy on citizens.
On the other hand, social media has also been a powerful tool for activism. Forums like #EndPoliceBrutality and #StandtoEndRape depend on the openness of social media to reach wide audiences quickly.
The president of Uganda refers to China as Africa's 'citizens bank', but this friendship may not be in favor of Africans when it comes to digital rights and privacy. The president once wrote a letter complaining that social media amplified 'olugambo' (gossip) in his country.
In conclusion, the impact of social media on Africa is multifaceted and complex. While it offers opportunities for activism and connectivity, it also poses threats to privacy, democracy, and digital rights. It is crucial for governments, citizens, and international bodies to engage in open dialogue and work towards solutions that protect the rights and interests of all.
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