The Transformative Role of Digital Media in the Process of Political Participation: The Case of Azerbaijan

This article analyzes the structural transformations in political communication and political participation mechanisms in Azerbaijan in the context of the development of digital media following the restoration of independence. The global digitalization process has altered the functional foundations of the media system, making information production and dissemination more flexible, interactive, and network-based. This transformation has directly influenced citizens’ levels of political awareness, forms of participation in public debates, and patterns of political behavior. As a result of the widespread adoption of information and communication technologies, not only the media environment but also societal political behavior models, participation practices, and the structure of public discourse have acquired new characteristics. In this regard, the study conceptually examines the relationship between digital media and political participation from a theoretical perspective and explains it within the framework of institutional approaches. The findings indicate that although digital media has become the primary platform for accessing political information, political participation largely remains observational and passive in nature. While social media contributes to the expansion of political discourse, ethical challenges and the risks of disinformation limit the full realization of this potential. The article concludes that digital media has become a significant component of the political communication system in Azerbaijan. However, the qualitative deepening of political participation is directly dependent on the strengthening of the institutional environment, media literacy, and ethical journalism principles.

Keywords: Azerbaijan, digital media, political communication, political participation, social media

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