Social media has transformed Vietnam’s landscape, especially for young people. Known as the “Social media generation” or the “Facebook generation,” Vietnamese youths are using social media to engage with political issues, express their opinions, and shape public discussions. With a rapidly growing online presence, Vietnamese youth are carving out a unique form of political expression and participation, providing an alternative space for voices that might otherwise go unheard. This is an excerpt of our book “Social media and political participation in Vietnam: Disrupting journalism in the virtual public sphere“, published by Springer Nature.
Facebook’s Role in Shaping Youthful Activism
In recent years, Facebook has become the leading platform for social interaction and expression in Vietnam, hosting millions of young users who leverage its space to share ideas, raise awareness, and organize campaigns. Unlike traditional media, Facebook allows for real-time communication, anonymity, and access to diverse viewpoints. This openness has made it an appealing alternative for young people looking to express opinions on topics such as environmental protection, economic inequalities, and social justice.
This shift to online spaces has created what many now refer to as the “Facebook sphere.” Although it doesn’t completely align with Western ideals of a public sphere—where diverse opinions lead to consensus through rational debate—it does offer an essential venue for Vietnamese youth to engage with societal issues in new ways.
Social Media as a Tool for Engagement
The emergence of social media has enabled a form of “everyday politics,” where young people engage in civic issues outside traditional political settings. From sharing posts on environmental campaigns to participating in online discussions about governance, Vietnamese youth are using these platforms to push for change. Social media’s accessibility and speed allow users to bypass traditional communication hurdles and connect directly with others who share their interests. This has fostered a sense of community and empowerment, as young people realize they can contribute to shaping public opinion.
Challenges and Barriers to Participation
Despite these opportunities, there are notable barriers to political engagement for Vietnamese youth. Many feel apprehensive about sharing their opinions openly, given the socio-political context. Additionally, misinformation, harassment, and self-censorship continue to challenge online discourse. Nevertheless, the anonymity and perceived security of social media have provided a level of freedom that young people might not experience offline, allowing them to navigate these limitations creatively.
The “Facebook Generation” and the Future
The unique role of Facebook in Vietnam highlights the dynamic ways young people are redefining political participation. With limited options for engagement in traditional settings, social media provides a crucial avenue for self-expression, community building, and public engagement. Although it does not fully replace a more open political environment, this “Facebook generation” reflects the possibilities that digital platforms offer for public discourse.
As the social media landscape continues to evolve, Vietnamese youth are likely to remain active players in the digital public sphere, finding new ways to connect, advocate, and mobilize. Their involvement not only signifies a shift in how they engage with society but also points to the potential for a more participatory future where their voices continue to shape Vietnam’s social and political landscape.
Reference
Le, V. T., Ly-Le, T. M., & Ha, L. (2024). Social media and political participation in Vietnam: Disrupting journalism in the virtual public sphere. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-8955-9