Emma Segebrecht & Helena Ahlgrimm

Social media campaigns play a crucial role in public discourse and mobilization in fragile states. This study examines MyRedLine (MRL), a 2019 Afghan social media campaign that allowed citizens to voice their concerns about Taliban peace talks. Through video testimonials shared online, the campaign generated 20 million impressions, fostering dialogue and international awareness.

While MRL successfully amplified Afghan voices, its political impact remained uncertain, particularly after the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Limited internet access and security risks also restricted participation. Despite these challenges, the study highlights the potential of social media in fragile states, emphasizing the need for safer, more inclusive, and sustainable digital activism in conflict-affected regions. This paper was written as part of a seminar at Leipzig University, where the three best contributions were selected and published

Find the full article here.