The Potential Role of Social Media in Peacebuilding in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This article uses securitisation theory to examine the Zimbabwean government's handling of protests and protesters’ use of social media. It is based on the case study of Harare and data gathered from both primary and secondary sources. The article argues that securitisation of the right to protest in Zimbabwe forecloses opportunities for engagement, which negatively affects peace and development. It asserts that social media platforms’ capacity to mobilise discontented citizens for protests can be used by Zimbabwean policy makers to engage the citizens and enhance the formulation and development of pro-peace and development policy initiatives. The article concludes that embracing relevant digital technologies, particularly social media platforms, can offer broader policy engagement opportunities and thereby minimise protests by disgruntled citizens.