Video Democracy is changing the way you see government

Video Democracy is a concept we are still getting familiar with, but with the Arab Spring gathering pace online, its clear that the transparency of events seen through videos is changing the way we think.

The web has made our video creations more shareable, and given us unlimited access to content round the clock. Governments have used videos throughout motion picture history to influence people, but now people have somewhat more control over what they see in the way their country is governed.

Viral sharing of video content with no boundaries goes far beyond the capabilities of government to control messages over their respective populations. With internet access comes the idea of transparency. What we see in videos being shared is the truth, at least, from first hand reports. This is a very powerful message in itself because it isn’t crafted by governments to promote a particular issue. Sometimes a call to action by an institution is not enough to create momentum. It takes a single video of a protest to spark intrigue, and sometimes outrage. We truly live in a time where you can pick up a camera, film something and create a viewpoint on what you are showing.

Does this mean that people have more power to influence each other than those running the country? What makes you tick? Are you more persuaded by a video montage or interview that explains what government is doing, or a first hand video account of your neighbor exploring the same issue and asking people directly?