Global civil society networks online: Zapatistas, the MAI and landmines

This paper provides some background into the research literature concerning social change activism as it has been influenced by the new online communications technologies. It briefly reviews CMC and CSCW; community networks and virtual communities; online governance and the public sphere; and Internet activism. This is followed by an elucidation of networking, the fundamental concept underlying the collaborations of civil society.

In the latter half of the paper, three case studies are given that exemplify the empowerment of global civil society through computer-enhanced networking - the Zapatistas' 'net war', the anti-MAI (Multi-lateral Agreement on Investment) campaign, and the International Treaty to Ban Landmines. Ensuing discussions reflect upon the relationship between online and offline networking. It is argued that these three cases are evidence that online networking has made social change activists more effective in influencing policy at an international level.

(Abstract)