![]() Nevertheless, the literature to date shows that political entities on social media overwhelmingly use their platforms for one-way information dissemination. As such, the perceived low barrier to accessing information online may even be considered a desirable outcome of the accelerated transition to a more digital world. Ostensibly, the public sphere of the digital realm also enables a two-way stream of communication. It enables the voter to partake in debate, ask questions, critique, and engage – all of which contribute to well-informed decision making later on in the voting process. The impact of reduced direct interaction on the democratic processĪn important feature of face-to-face interaction is the facilitation of a two-way stream of communication. This imbalance, caused by COVID-19 restrictions, clearly places newer parties and less known political platforms at a disadvantage. Newer political entities, with fewer supporters and financial backers, may experience greater difficulty in mobilizing resources remotely. Social distancing prevents political entities from organizing such activities, requiring these entities to employ novel strategies to win votes. ![]() Campaigning and fundraising traditionally require extensive in-person contact. It is of considerable concern that political parties are less able to conduct campaigns prior to the elections in the present climate. With parliamentary elections fast approaching in the Netherlands, we deemed it necessary to shine some light on this issue and discuss the impact of coronavirus measures on the democratic process. A study by research bureau Kieskompas found that around 10% of Dutch people believe in at least one of the many conspiracy theories surrounding COVID-19. The Netherlands, like many countries in Europe, has seen a rise in conspiracy theories circulating online. Critics of lockdown restrictions can be far too easily grouped in with COVID-19 deniers or 5G conspiracy theorists. Merely mentioning the word ‘democracy,’ or related terms such as ‘freedom’ or ‘rights’ in countries like the Netherlands can be a risky endeavor in certain social settings. In speaking with friends or colleagues about the matter, one may feel the need to bite one’s tongue. Open debate has not been spared from the adverse effects of restrictive anti-coronavirus measures. Regardless of the debate around the necessity of various restrictions, the net result of these unprecedented measures remain difficult to gauge.Ĭriticism of lockdown restrictions is often taboo in the Netherlands Social isolation has fostered a loneliness epidemic and mental health crisis of unprecedented proportions. ![]()
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