Social Media and Democratic Backsliding in Israel Since October 7th

• In Event: New Directions in Information Technology and Politics

Abstract

Since October 7th, 2023, the Israeli government has implemented measures to suppress dissent within the Palestinian community amid the ongoing conflict with the Gaza Strip. This paper examines the evolving situation, focusing on the government's framing of the conflict as an existential challenge and the subsequent prioritization of controlling dissenting voices online against the war. Social media becomes a catalyst in the ongoing process of democratic backsliding, exacerbating the crisis in Israeli democracy.

The decline in Israeli democracy is evident in the erosion of rights, values, and institutions crucial for maintaining a healthy, high-quality democratic governance. Led by Benjamin Netanyahu, the government has expanded police powers, allowing them to identify and target perceived support for terrorism without state prosecutors' involvement, thereby diminishing legal protections for individual free speech. Concerns arise regarding a broader definition of incitement and support for terrorism under the new amendment to the Counter-Terrorism Law. Additionally, the police encouraged individuals and institutions to report suspicious posts, resulting in hundreds of arrests based on reported social media content. Reports came from private citizens, coworkers, colleagues, classmates, and even student unions.

Consequently, Israeli academic institutions have declared "zero tolerance" for "supporting terrorism," leading to the suspension or expulsion of students, particularly Palestinians expressing identity or solidarity with Gaza. This directive triggered a purge in universities, with Palestinian students facing disciplinary action, showcasing a unique role shift of universities towards surveillance and censorship.

The research explores the consequences of these measures, emphasizing their impact on suppressing criticism and stifling expressions of compassion. Utilizing data collected from social media posts by prominent Arab influencers in Israel, coupled with reports from media, Academics for Equality, and Adalah, among other NGOs advocating for equal rights, the research examines how social media surveillance has become multifaceted. The collaboration between state institutions, social media companies, employers, and educational institutions in monitoring and penalizing expressions of dissent contributes to a chilling effect, stifling open discourse and historical perspectives. This paper argues that the suppression of Arab and leftist voices in Israel represents a nuanced tactic with far-reaching consequences, influencing local and global conversations and raising critical questions about the health of democracy and the protection of fundamental freedoms.

Author

• Anwar Mhajne, Stonehill College