The Stream

Is ‘clicktivism’ destroying meaningful social activism?

Backlash against #Kony2012 calls into question the effects of online campaigns.


In the aftermath of the controversial #Kony2012 campaign, many netizens have challenged “clicktivism”—the idea that one engages in activism by sharing something online—and its potential to shape real world change.

The documentary “Kony 2012” by the non-profit Invisible Children calls for the arrest of Lord’s Resistance Army leader Joseph Kony, who has recruited child soldiers to wage a more than 20-year war in northern Uganda. Critics say the video, which now has more than 76 million views, distorts the facts and reinforces Western stereotypes.

In this episode of The Stream, we speak to journalist Rosebell Kagumire, Ugandan cabinet minister Betty Oyella Bigombe, and Emma Ruby-Sachs, campaign director for Avaaz.

What do you think? Do campaigns such as #Kony2012 do more harm than good? Send us your thoughts and comments on Facebook or Twitter using hashtag #AJStream.