Media and Protests: The Utilisation of Communication Technologies by Environmental Movements

Abstract

A notable feature of the recent political landscape has been the increasing incidents of confrontation between grassroots and elites. These conflicts have occurred in the wake of the declining relevance of the traditional left-right dichotomy, and have been exemplified by the campaigns of opposition led by environmental groups against the globalised corporate sector. This article will examine how new forms of political expression may arise from the environmental movements’ utilisation of the new technologies of communication as a strategic tool in their campaigns of protest. The use of internet and media technologies by environmental groups has facilitated the growth of a network of committed activists, who provide scientific and technological expertise to like-minded protests around the globe. By exploring movement use of media and internet technologies, this paper will outline new approaches taken by grassroots groups as part of their resistance to corporate and institutional actors. The spread of environmental protest in Ireland through the increased use of communications technologies will be examined in regard to the Galway for a Safe Environment (GSE) anti-incinerator group. GSE’s ability to utilise internet technologies to forge links with global anti-toxics movements will provide evidence of the extensive nature of the links available to grassroots groups who embrace cyberprotest as a tool of protest.